Related Articles
In a significant shake-up in the ICC Test Batting Rankings, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma has dropped out of the top 30 rankings for the first time in six years. Meanwhile, England’s Harry Brook has taken the coveted No. 1 spot, replacing former captain Joe Root.
Rohit’s Decline in Form
Rohit Sharma’s performance in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia has been far from his usual standards. The 37-year-old batter has managed just 152 runs in 12 innings this season, averaging a meager 11.83. His struggles continued in the second Test, where he was dismissed for single-digit scores in both innings.
The Indian captain’s prolonged dip in form has seen him fall out of the top 30 batters for the first time since 2018.
Adding to India’s woes, Virat Kohli also dropped in the rankings, slipping six spots to 20th. Despite a stunning century in the first Test in Perth, Kohli’s underwhelming scores of 7 and 11 in the second Test have contributed to his decline.
India will aim for a strong comeback when they face Australia in the third Test at The Gabba, Brisbane, starting Saturday, December 14. The series is tied at 1-1 after Australia’s commanding 10-wicket win in the second Test under lights.
Harry Brook Reigns Supreme
In a contrasting tale, England’s rising star Harry Brook has claimed the No. 1 spot in Test batting rankings following a sensational series against New Zealand. The 25-year-old batter has scored 349 runs in just three innings at an incredible average of 116.33.
Brook’s recent scores of 171, 123, and 55 have been instrumental in England’s series victory, with the team leading 2-0 against New Zealand. Brook dethrones Joe Root, who had held the No. 1 spot since July 2024, after taking over from Kane Williamson.
Looking Ahead
The third and final Test of the England-New Zealand series will begin at Seddon Park, Hamilton, on Sunday, December 15, where Brook will look to extend his purple patch.
For India, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will need to rediscover their form if they hope to turn the tide in Brisbane and regain momentum in the closely contested series.
