India’s 2–1 home defeat to New Zealand (Jan 2026), following the earlier loss in Australia (Oct 2025), has intensified scrutiny over the team’s overall balance.
Senior batters Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma continue to score consistently, but support from the middle order has remained inconsistent.
Based on recent performances and expert opinions (including Sunil Gavaskar), these three players are under the scanner:
Despite promise, Reddy has failed to make a significant impact as a middle-order all-rounder, with concerns over his situational awareness in 50-over cricket.
The pacer has lacked rhythm and control, proving expensive without offering the wicket-taking threat India needs in key phases.
Jadeja’s finishing ability and middle-over bowling impact have dipped, prompting debate despite his elite fielding standards.
Players like Harshit Rana, Washington Sundar and Axar Patel have shown greater consistency, putting pressure on established names.
With the next ODI World Cup cycle underway, India’s think tank may accelerate generational change to build a more balanced squad.