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India's recent performance in the Test series against New Zealand has been a cause for concern, culminating in a humiliating 0-3 whitewash on home soil. This series marked a historic moment as New Zealand became the first cricket team to achieve a complete series victory against India in India. The 26-run defeat in the third Test match at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai brought an end to India's hopes of salvaging the series, leaving fans and critics alike questioning the team's current form.
Adding to the disappointment, India's captain, Rohit Sharma, has matched an unwanted record previously held by MAK Pataudi. With four home Test losses in 2024, Sharma now shares the record for most home Test losses in a calendar year. Pataudi, who led India in 1969, suffered one defeat against New Zealand and three against Australia. Sharma's first setback as captain in 2024 came against England in the Hyderabad Test, followed by three consecutive losses against New Zealand, including a 8-wicket loss in Bengaluru, a 113-run defeat in Pune, and the final 26-run loss in Mumbai.
Despite the recent setbacks, Sharma's total of five Test losses on home soil places him second in the list of Indian captains with most home defeats. MAK Pataudi leads this list with a staggering nine home Test losses, more than any other Indian captain. Former captain Virat Kohli, in comparison, only experienced three Test losses in India during his tenure. This disappointing home series has undoubtedly cast a shadow over India's upcoming challenge, the five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia. India will need to find their form and regroup quickly to face a formidable Australian team on their home turf.
Source: Rohit Sharma joins an 'unwanted' list after New Zealand loss, First in 55 years