Rohit Sharma’s future as India’s captain will not be addressed during the ongoing tour of Australia. According to a Cricbuzz report, the Ajit Agarkar-led selection panel has opted to defer any discussions about Rohit’s retirement until after the conclusion of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Rohit is facing immense scrutiny, with his batting form at an all-time low and his captaincy under fire. As India heads into the final Test in Sydney, their last chance to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the pressure on Rohit has intensified. Rumors of a potential mid-series retirement, akin to MS Dhoni’s 2014-15 decision, have circulated. However, reports suggest no such conversation between chief selector Agarkar and Rohit has taken place yet.
“The situation with Rohit is the proverbial elephant in the room,” the Cricbuzz report stated. “The authorities are aware of the challenges but prefer to avoid unsettling the team during a critical series. If necessary, a discussion will occur only after the series.”
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Rohit Set to Lead in Sydney
Despite the swirling speculation, Rohit is expected to captain India in the New Year’s Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground, starting January 3. Unless he voluntarily steps aside, he will continue to lead the side in what could be a decisive match.
The Pressure on Rohit Sharma
Rohit missed the first Test in Perth due to the birth of his second child, with Jasprit Bumrah stepping in as captain and securing India’s only win of the series so far. Critics, including former players like Mark Waugh, have openly called for Bumrah to replace Rohit as skipper. Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan suggested Rohit’s place in the team is secured only by his role as captain.
In the current series, Rohit has scored just 31 runs in five innings, failing to find his rhythm at any position in the batting order. This slump follows a string of poor performances: 91 runs in six innings against New Zealand at home and only 42 runs in the series against Bangladesh. Over his last 15 innings, Rohit has averaged less than 11 runs, casting doubts over his future as both a batsman and captain.
What Lies Ahead
As India prepares for the fifth and final Test, the spotlight remains firmly on Rohit Sharma. While selectors have chosen to delay any major decisions, the New Year’s Test in Sydney could prove pivotal for the Indian skipper’s career.
