New Delhi: Indian skipper Rohit Sharma has been officially ruled out of the first Test against Australia, scheduled to begin on November 22 in Perth. Speculation around Rohit’s participation had been rife for the past few days, but reports confirm that he has opted to spend time with his family following the birth of his son. Rohit is expected to join the Indian team before the second Day-Night Test, starting on December 4 in Adelaide.
Rohit Informs BCCI About His Decision
Rohit had earlier informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and chief selector Ajit Agarkar about the possibility of missing the Perth Test. Despite keeping the option of traveling to Australia at the last moment, Rohit has now decided to stay back with his family. While the Indian skipper continued his regular practice and gym sessions, his final decision came after his son’s birth last week. This news puts an end to fans’ hopes that he might play the first Test.
Bumrah to Lead in Rohit’s Absence
With Rohit unavailable, vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah will lead the Indian side in the first Test. Bumrah has prior captaincy experience, having led the team during the Edgbaston Test against England in the 2021-22 series when Rohit was sidelined due to COVID-19.
Rohit will return to the team ahead of the second Test and is likely to participate in the two-day pink-ball warm-up match in Adelaide.
Team India Faces Selection Challenges
Rohit’s absence, along with Shubman Gill being ruled out due to injury, means India will be without two of their star players for the first Test. Earlier, KL Rahul and Abhimanyu Easwaran were contenders to partner Yashasvi Jaiswal at the top of the order. However, it now appears both may find places in the playing XI, bolstering India’s batting lineup.
With a reshuffled lineup and Bumrah at the helm, India will aim to start their series on a strong note against a formidable Australian side.
