Yograj Singh on Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma's form [Source: @Riocasm, @vicharabhio/X.com]
Former Indian cricketer Yograj Singh said that if he was granted the chance to be the head coach of the Indian team, he would turn the team into an unbeatable force. He said Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma need support but must follow a rigorous training regime.
The Indian cricket team has recently faced criticism for its inconsistent performances in red-ball cricket.
After a 0-3 Test series sweep against New Zealand at home and a Border-Gavaskar Trophy defeat in Australia, fears have been expressed about the team's consistency in dominating all forms.
Yograj Singh’s Big Claim On Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma’s Form
Still, the team fared well in white-ball cricket, winning the Champions Trophy with Rohit Sharma as captain. Yet, according to Yograj Singh, with the right mind-set, India can overcome their problems in Test cricket.
In an interview, he stressed that the key to India's success lies in bringing out the best in its players rather than constantly looking to drop them after failures.
"If you make me the coach of the Indian team, I will use these same players to transform it into a side that will be unbeatable for ages. Who will bring out their capabilities? Because people are always ready to throw them out of the team—drop Rohit Sharma or drop Kohli—but why? They are going through a rough patch and I want to tell my kids that I am with you," Yograj said.
Yograj Singh made it clear that he would stand firmly behind stalwarts like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, ensuring they get the necessary backing to regain their top form. He argued that players should not be discarded hastily due to a rough patch.
"I'll tell them let's play Ranji Trophy, or I will make Rohit run 20 km. Nobody does that. These players are diamonds. You don't throw them out. I will be like their father. I have never differentiated between Yuvraj and the others, not even Dhoni. But what is wrong is wrong," he added.
Confusion Over Rohit Sharma’s Inclusion In England Test Series
Indian skipper Rohit Sharma is reportedly set to miss the upcoming Test series against England in June 2025.
According to India Today, Rohit is unhappy with his Test form and may opt-out following a disappointing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where India also failed to qualify for the World Test Championship final.
However, conflicting reports from PTI suggest Rohit could still lead the side. If he steps down, Jasprit Bumrah is likely to captain against England.