India's Series Against New Zealand
India's 3-0 loss against New Zealand was a stunning drop-off, with the team citing adverse weather conditions and the decision at the toss as critical factors for the loss. However, by the time they reached Mumbai, they had no excuses, no solutions, and no answers.
The Need to Re-Evaluate India's Approach
India's batting approach has been aggressive, but it has often waylaid the team in direr conditions. The team's captain, Rohit, has been at the center of this approach, trying to score quick runs on a wearing pitch. However, his poor run has extended through the year, with an average of 29.40 being his lowest calendar year average since 2019.
Rohit's Evolution as a Batter
Rohit has admitted that he needs to spend more time defending balls, which he hasn't done in this series. He has also stated that he is trying to evolve as a batter, but that has led to some disastrous consequences. His captaincy has also been questioned, with him taking responsibility for the team's mistakes.
Pitches and Selection
The pitches in this series have been criticized for being too favorable to spinners. Playing on turning pitches has been a strategy that India has opted for, but it backfired in this series. The team's decision to play on a turner in Mumbai has been questioned, and it remains to be seen if they will review their strategy.
The Senior Core's Performance
Rohit and Kohli, the team's senior core, have struggled in this series. Kohli has looked far from his confident self, and changes to stance and endless workout in the nets haven't helped him regain his form. The duo's involvement in an unwanted piece of history will be a blemish on their careers.
What Next for India?
With this series defeat, India's chances of making it to the WTC final have been significantly reduced. They will now need to win games in Australia without depending on other results. Additionally, they will have to re-evaluate their approach and make changes to their selection team, particularly with regards to their pace bowlers.
Tough Questions Ahead
India's performance in this series has raised several tough questions. Will they continue to play on turning pitches? How will they address their batting woes? What changes will they make to their selection team? These questions will be at the forefront of their minds as they head into the next series.