The ongoing debate about India’s Test team transition has taken a dramatic turn. Former India cricketer Manoj Tiwary has launched a scathing critique of the current team management, alleging that legends Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma were “pushed out” of Test cricket against their wishes. In a bold interview, Tiwary dismissed the official narrative of a smooth generational handover as a “manufactured transition” and directly called out head coach Gautam Gambhir for deflecting blame after a recent batting collapse against South Africa .
This controversy strikes at the heart of Indian cricket’s most sensitive topic: how to move on from its golden generation without alienating its biggest stars—or its fans. With emotions running high and the team’s identity in flux, Tiwary’s comments have ignited a much-needed conversation about accountability, loyalty, and the true cost of “rebuilding.”
Manoj Tiwary, who played 6 ODIs and 2 T20Is for India and had a prolific domestic career, didn’t hold back. “This idea that Rohit and Virat walked away on their own terms is not the full story,” he stated. “Both were ready and willing to continue in Test cricket. But a narrative was created that they were ‘past their prime’ to justify bringing in younger players .”
He described this as a “manufactured transition”—a top-down decision disguised as organic evolution. According to Tiwary, forcing out two of India’s most successful modern batters not only disrespects their legacy but also destabilizes the team’s core during a critical phase.
“You don’t discard world-class players because you want to ‘test’ newcomers in high-stakes matches,” he added. “You integrate. You mentor. You build bridges—not burn them.”
Tiwary’s criticism extended to head coach Gautam Gambhir, who recently attributed India’s batting collapse in the first Test against South Africa to “technical deficiencies” in the players’ approach. “Instead of taking responsibility for poor preparation or flawed strategy, the coach blamed the players’ technique,” Tiwary said, calling the remark “unprofessional and tone-deaf” .
He emphasized that a coach’s role isn’t just to critique—it’s to fix. “If the technique is flawed, why wasn’t it addressed in training? Why wait for a failure on the field to point fingers?” Tiwary asked. “That’s not leadership. That’s deflection.”
Contrary to suggestions of retirement, both Kohli and Rohit have expressed interest in continuing Test cricket. Kohli, 36, has repeatedly said he wants to play the 2025–26 home season, including the high-profile series against Australia . Rohit, 37, has been more reserved but has never formally announced a Test retirement.
Yet, neither was selected for the South Africa Test series—a decision BCCI insiders framed as “rest” but which many, including Tiwary, see as exclusion. The absence of clear communication has fueled speculation and discontent among fans and former players alike.
History shows that sustainable transitions balance respect with renewal. Examples include:
In each case, the exit was player-led, not management-enforced. The difference is subtle but critical—it preserves legacy while enabling growth.
Tiwary’s comments have gone viral on social media, with #RespectKohliRohit trending across platforms. Many fans share his frustration, arguing that sidelining proven performers for untested talent undermines team stability. “We’re not asking them to play forever,” one fan tweeted. “Just let them go on their own terms.”
Cricket analysts are split. Some back Tiwary, citing India’s inconsistent batting and lack of depth in crucial situations. Others defend the new approach, arguing that long-term planning requires tough calls. But even supporters admit the messaging around Kohli and Rohit’s absence has been “muddled at best” .
For a deeper look at how other nations manage generational change, explore our analysis on [INTERNAL_LINK:how-top-cricket-nations-handle-player-transitions].
Manoj Tiwary’s explosive claim that Rohit Kohli pushed out of Tests has reignited a crucial debate about ethics, loyalty, and leadership in Indian cricket. By alleging a “manufactured transition” and criticizing coach Gautam Gambhir for blaming player technique instead of taking responsibility, Tiwary has challenged the official narrative head-on. Whether or not his claims are fully substantiated, they highlight a growing unease about how India is managing its most valuable sporting assets during a period of change. As fans demand transparency and respect for legacy, the BCCI and coaching staff face mounting pressure to clarify their vision—and their values.
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