India's Struggling Batting Stars Return to Ranji Trophy to Regain Form
Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Rishabh Pant turn to domestic cricket after a poor run in Tests.
Several of India's top cricketers have made a surprising return to domestic cricket as they seek to rediscover their form following a string of disappointing performances in Test matches. The ongoing Ranji Trophy is witnessing a rare influx of star power, with players like Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Rishabh Pant looking to regain their confidence with the bat.
India’s recent Test struggles have been well documented. A 3-0 series whitewash at home against New Zealand was followed by a crushing 3-1 defeat in Australia, bringing an end to their decade-long dominance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The twin setbacks also dashed their hopes of making a third consecutive World Test Championship final.
Rohit Sharma’s Domestic Return
Among the biggest names returning to domestic action is captain Rohit Sharma, who was dropped for the final Test in Australia after failing to deliver as both an opener and a middle-order batter. Despite scoring just one fifty in his last 15 Test innings, the 37-year-old has dismissed any speculation about retiring from the longest format.
On Tuesday, Rohit was seen training with the Mumbai squad at Wankhede Stadium ahead of the Ranji Trophy’s second phase, which begins on January 23. He is expected to feature in at least one of Mumbai’s remaining two Group A matches—marking his first appearance in India’s premier first-class competition in nine years.
Other Stars Yet to Confirm Participation
While Rohit is preparing for his Ranji Trophy return, former captain Virat Kohli has yet to confirm if he will participate in the tournament. Kohli last played a Ranji Trophy match in 2012, and though the Indian board has advised struggling players to return to domestic cricket, his participation remains uncertain.
With India’s next Test series—a five-match contest against England—scheduled to begin on June 20, these Ranji Trophy outings could prove crucial for players looking to reclaim their spots and form ahead of the marquee clash.