Nov 04, V7N- India captain Rohit Sharma admitted that the recent 3-0 Test series loss to New Zealand at home was a "low point" in his career, taking full responsibility for the unexpected defeat. India, considered strong favorites, suffered a whitewash after failing to chase 147 in the third Test in Mumbai, eventually bowled out for 121 runs. This marked only their second series whitewash at home, a rare setback that Rohit acknowledged as a personal and collective failure.
 
Reflecting on the defeat, Rohit recognized his own struggles, saying, "As a leader, I have not been at the best of my abilities right from the start of the series. With the bat as well, I have not been good enough." Rohit’s disappointing form continued as he managed only 11 runs in the final Test, scoring just one run across six innings in the series. Other key players, like Virat Kohli, also failed to contribute significantly, with Kohli scoring only one half-century throughout the series.
 
The Indian team now turns its focus to the upcoming tour of Australia, with five Test matches starting on November 22 in Perth. India has had recent success in Australia, winning two back-to-back Test series there with 2-1 victories, which Rohit believes can serve as a confidence boost despite the recent setbacks. "Australia is not an easy place to play cricket, but we can take a lot of confidence from how we played in the last two series," he said. India will need four wins to maintain a strong chance of reaching the World Test Championship final at Lord's next year, especially as Australia now leads the standings with India in second.
 
While Rohit emphasized the importance of the Australia series, he hinted he may sit out the first two matches for personal reasons, with Indian media speculating that he might join the squad later. "Right now, I am not too sure whether I will be going (for the opening match)," he said. "But let's see. Fingers crossed."
 
Despite the disappointing loss, Rohit expressed optimism about the upcoming challenge, viewing it as an opportunity for redemption and a chance to achieve "something really, really special in Australia."
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