Photo Credit: Instagram Photo of @rohitsharma45
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly informed Rohit Sharma that he is no longer part of their Test cricket plans after the ongoing series against Australia, according to a report by The Indian Express. With India facing a challenging path to qualify for the World Test Championship (WTC) Final, the report suggests that Jasprit Bumrah will captain the side if they reach the summit clash.
The selectors are also expected to meet with Virat Kohli to discuss his future in Test cricket. However, the report indicates that all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja remains a key figure in the team’s transition phase, as his contributions are highly valued.
Amid speculation that Rohit has played his final Test for India, the skipper “opted to rest” for the fifth and final Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant described the decision as an emotional one.
“It was an emotional decision because he’s been the captain for a long time. We see him as the leader of the team. There are some decisions that you are not involved with; it was a call by the management, and I was not a part of that conversation, so can’t explain further,” Pant said during the post-match press conference.
Rohit’s performances in the series have drawn criticism, as he averaged just 6.2 across three Tests, with a highest score of 10. Speculation about his exclusion from the Sydney Test intensified after head coach Gautam Gambhir refrained from guaranteeing his place in the pre-match press conference.
Rohit’s absence allowed vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah to lead the team in the series-deciding Test. Bumrah’s leadership was praised for its positivity.
“The message (from Bumrah) is to be positive all the time, don’t think about what has already happened, and just give your best on the field. That’s what you want from your captain—being in a positive frame of mind and moving the game forward every day,” Pant added.
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Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
