Concerns Rise for Rohit and Kohli Ahead of Border-Gavaskar Trophy

New Zealand secured a commanding 113-run victory over India in the second Test in Pune, taking a 2-0 lead in the three-match series. This defeat marked the end of India's remarkable streak of 18 consecutive home series wins in Test cricket, leaving captain Rohit Sharma visibly frustrated.

Both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have struggled with their form in the longest format of the game. In the Pune Test, Rohit was dismissed for a duck and managed just 8 runs across both innings. Kohli fared little better, scoring only 1 and 17. In the previous match in Bengaluru, Rohit scored 2 and 52, while Kohli registered scores of 0 and 70.

The duo's recent performances have raised eyebrows, with many observers suggesting they've become "walking wickets" in Test cricket. Following their final encounter against New Zealand in Mumbai, India will face a challenging five-match series in Australia.

Sanjay Manjrekar has expressed concern regarding the form of both players as they prepare for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. "Their current form is alarming for the team, especially with the different challenges that await them in Australia," he noted on ESPNcricinfo. Rohit's defeat in Pune marked his fourth loss in 15 home matches as captain.

Mitchell Santner proved to be a standout performer for New Zealand, taking 13 wickets and earning the Player of the Match award. His exceptional figures of 13/157 rank as the third-best match performance by a New Zealand bowler, as well as the third-best against India by any team.

Rohit reflected on the disappointing result, stating, "I am disappointed and hurt. We did not anticipate this outcome, but credit must be given to New Zealand for their performance."