New Delhi: Former India batting coach Vikram Rathour has voiced both caution and optimism as the Indian cricket team gears up for a challenging tour of England, following the recent retirements of three of its most iconic players—Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravichandran Ashwin.
With Shubman Gill expected to lead a youthful Indian Test side, the five-match series starting June 20 in Leeds will not only mark the beginning of a new World Test Championship cycle, but also usher in a new era for Indian cricket.
“It’s going to be a tough tour. With several senior players stepping away, a young squad led by a possible new captain will certainly feel the pressure,” Rathour said following Rajasthan Royals’ win over Chennai Super Kings on Tuesday. “But this is also a big opportunity for these players to showcase their talent and prove themselves at the highest level.”
Reflecting on the exits of the senior trio, Rathour acknowledged the personal nature of their decisions. “All three were phenomenal cricketers. I would have loved to see them continue, but we must respect their choices,” he added.
Rathour, currently the batting coach of Rajasthan Royals, praised 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who played a mature and composed knock in RR’s victory over CSK. “We’ve been working with him for 3–4 months. The maturity and temperament he displayed in a high-pressure game were remarkable,” he said.
He also admitted that despite a strong squad, Rajasthan Royals underperformed in key areas this season. “Fielding was sub-par, and bowling allowed 10–15 extra runs too often. Even though our batting was our strength, we couldn’t close out games despite getting good starts,” he said. “But I believe the worst is over, and there’s a lot to look forward to in the next season.”
Rathour reserved additional praise for Dhruv Jurel, highlighting his solid technique and mental strength. “He has great temperament and technical ability. Players like him are vital for the future,” he noted.
