Indian captain Rohit Sharma is facing criticism these days for his poor form and captaincy. His place in the team in the fifth and final Test match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy is not considered confirmed. There is strong speculation that Rohit will be given ‘rest’ in the match starting from January 2 in Sydney. In his absence, Jasprit Bumrah can take charge of the team. Bumrah’s aim is to end the series on a draw.
Rohit’s form and possible exit
- Rohit Sharma has scored only 31 runs in 5 innings so far in the series.
- If Rohit is dropped, he could become the first Indian captain to be dropped from the team due to poor form.
- Coach Gautam Gambhir said, “Playing-11 will be decided after seeing the pitch.”
- Rohit also took last minute practice in the nets for the Sydney Test, indicating that his place is in danger.
Shubman Gill may get a chance
- In Rohit’s absence, Shubman Gill may get a chance at number three.
- Gill’s selection could likely be part of the team management’s strategy to give priority to young players.
- Amidst Rohit’s poor performance and questions over captaincy, Gill’s selection can bring a new energy to the team.
Discussion of dissatisfaction and change in the team
- Reports of dissatisfaction within the team are affecting performance.
- Ravichandran Ashwin’s decision to retire in the middle of the series also created controversy.
- Coach Gambhir expressed displeasure over wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant’s irresponsible shots.
- There is a possibility that Dhruv Jurel may get a chance in place of Pant in the Sydney Test.
change in fast bowling
- Fast bowler Akash Deep will not be able to play the Sydney Test due to back problem.
- Either Prasidh Krishna or Harshit Rana is likely to get a chance in his place.
- However, lack of consistency in Harshit Rana’s bowling is a matter of concern for the team.
Rohit Sharma’s possible retirement
- Former coach Ravi Shastri said that Rohit may announce his retirement from Test cricket in the near future.
- “Young talented players, like Shubman Gill, are working hard to get a place in the team,” Shastri said.
- Rohit did not take part in the first Test of the series due to the birth of his second child, but his highest score in the subsequent five innings was 10 runs.
Importance of Sydney Test
- In this test match, which starts at 5 am Indian time, India has a chance to end the series on par.
- Amidst questions regarding captain Rohit’s form and leadership abilities, this match could prove to be decisive for his career.