Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma blamed as India near humiliating 1-3 Test series defeat vs England

Former England cricketer David Lloyd has stated that India have been missing senior batters Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025. Lloyd said that the Men in Blue, who are on the verge of a 3-1 defeat, may have secured better results had Virat and Rohit been part of the squad.

India reportedly planned a leadership change in Test cricket in May, replacing Rohit Sharma as captain for the five-match Test series in England. Rohit Sharma then announced his retirement from the format. A few days later, Virat Kohli also confirmed his exit from Tests - a decision that was made in advance.

David Lloyd Makes Bold Claim on Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s Absence

In his Daily Mail column, David Lloyd lauded India for their overall performance in the Test series but noted that they failed to seize crucial moments. He added that the absence of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma may have been the difference, and their presence could have changed the outcome.

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“India have been very impressive over the series, but they haven’t won the main moments," Lloyd wrote in his column for The Daily Mail.

“If Rohit Sharma or Virat Kohli were playing, I think the outcome would have been different. Certain players sniff out the main moments and are proactive rather than reactive. Ben Stokes is fabulous at that. India will be scratching their heads thinking how on earth they could lose this 3-1," he added.

Would Prefer Harry Brook as Vice-Captain - David Lloyd

David Lloyd also spoke about Ollie Pope’s underwhelming career numbers in the series. Lloyd has backed Brook for a leadership role, citing his consistency and natural connection with captain Ben Stokes.

“Michael Vaughan said he would prefer Harry Brook as vice-captain, and I agree. Brook is assured of a place in this side and looks a leader. He would naturally feed off Stokes," Lloyd wrote further.

"The simple fact is that Ollie Pope’s place in this side is vulnerable. Take out the runs against Ireland and Zimbabwe and his return is very modest. His average in the fourth innings of a Test is 16.7, and for a number three, that is nowhere near enough."

Ollie Pope’s position in England’s Test side is under scrutiny following a poor run of form after his century in the series opener at Headingley. He scored just 200 runs in the last four Tests with one half-century, raising concerns over his place at No. 3.

India on the Verge of 1-3 Series Defeat at The Oval

India have played competitive cricket throughout the series, trailing 1-2. Many believe India have dominated more sessions overall, but the results don’t reflect that.

England were 339/6 while chasing a 374-run target at stumps on Day 4 of the final Test at The Oval. At one point, they were cruising at 301/3 but suffered a collapse, losing three wickets for 36 runs before bad light halted play.

India now face an uphill battle on the final day to avoid another series defeat in England. The series has been without stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, both of whom retired from Test cricket just before the tour. Shubman Gill took over as captain.

Also read: India vs England Weather Report Day 5, Oval Test 2025