Rohit Sharma opts out of Sydney Test: In a significant development ahead of the fifth and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Jasprit Bumrah is expected to be named captain of Team India, as Rohit Sharma opts out of the Sydney Test, as reported by the Indian Express.
According to the report, Sharma informed coach Gautam Gambhir and chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar about his choice to miss the match.
This decision also implies that the Boxing Day Test could be Rohit Sharma’s last appearance in a Test for India, as he may not be included in the squad for the upcoming World Championship Cycle starting with a tour to England in the summer.
Shubman Gill, who was previously omitted from the Melbourne Test, is set to return to the playing XI in place of Rohit Sharma. Gill will bat at number three, with KL Rahul opening alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal, according to the report. Rishabh Pant will retain his position in the squad, while Prasidh Krishna has been called up to replace the injured Akash Deep, who has been ruled out of the series finale.
During a training session on the eve of the match, Gautam Gambhir was seen in prolonged discussions with Bumrah, while fielding drills were underway. Rohit Sharma, who appeared at the nets late, practiced with side-arm bowlers but did not engage in the usual slip fielding drills.
India’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir, addressed the media, emphasizing that any internal team discussions or debates should remain private. Gambhir revealed that he has been having “honest” conversations with his players and added that the team’s ongoing transition would be both comprehensive and thorough.
Although Gambhir refrained from commenting directly on Rohit Sharma’s inclusion, the Express report has confirmed that Sharma has opted out of the Sydney Test.