The ODI series should mark the start of transition

The disastrous test series is finally over and with yet another overseas whitewash there have been calls for sweeping changes in the team. The fact is that this time it is kind of justified. The Indian middle order which has been the pillar of strength for the team over the years has started to crumble. Changes are meant to happen and this is the right time to do it.

The final test in Adelaide could have been used to blood Rohit Sharma in the middle order an opportunity which I felt was wasted. Virat Kohli showed in this series that he is here to stay and trying out Rahane and Rohit in the final test would have been perfect. In the year 2012 India do not play any tests away so this will be the right time to test out our young players and this will also be an opportunity for these players to step up to the plate and show that they belong.

Virat Kohli took some time but by the end of Australian series he did look the part. The Indian middle order was the home of some great batsmen in the past and the youngsters would do well to step into those big shoes. The ODI series though gives them a great opportunity to turn this series around. The young ODI team can for sure make an impact in the ODI series which probably might mark the transition which the Indian fans are looking for. I hope that the selectors give ample opportunities to Rahane and Rohit to show their mettle in the long tri series.

Rohit Sharma had a brilliant CB series in 2007/08 and he will for sure have some good memories playing in Australia. It’s now the time for these players to step up and say that we are ready. Indian team needs a change and these youngsters are at the cusp of taking over the reins.

The last time India made some sweeping changes in the middle order was in 1996/97 season when we unearthed the gems Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman and Sourav Ganguly. The greats have done a plenty for the team and it will be disappointing to see them going away when the team is down. The Indian team needs the change and this is the right time to do it. The young players need to be given a chance to prove at the highest level. The ODI series in Australia probably will mark the beginning of the transition. Rohit, Rahane, Kohli ET all need to take the responsibility and join in to take the Indian team forward. They have Dhoni, Sehwag and Ghambir to guide them along with Sachin and I hope they take the bull by the horns and turn the series around.

Article by: Giridharan Subramanian