BGT 2024-25: Is this the end of Rohit Sharma’s test career? Reports hint at uncertain future
Xtra Time Web Desk: India’s Test captain Rohit Sharma opted to “rest” for the final match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Jasprit Bumrah led the team in his absence, revealing at the toss that Rohit had stepped aside to prioritize the team’s interests.
However, reports from the Indian Express suggest that the 37-year-old may have played his last Test match for India. Sources indicate that Rohit is no longer part of the selectors’ long-term plans, making a comeback for the World Test Championship (WTC) final in June 2025 at Lord’s unlikely.
Rohit’s struggles in the series have been evident, as he managed scores of 3, 6, 10, 3, and 9 in the three Tests he played after missing the opener in Perth. With his form under scrutiny, head coach Gautam Gambhir and chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar reportedly decided to leave him out of the Sydney Test XI.
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Speaking at the toss, stand-in captain Bumrah praised Rohit’s leadership, stating, “Obviously, our captain (Rohit) has shown his leadership as well. He’s opted to rest in this game. So that shows that there’s a lot of unity in our team. There’s no selfishness. Whatever is in the team’s best interest, we’re looking to do that.”
The selectors are expected to convene after the conclusion of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy to deliberate on team selections for upcoming tournaments, including the Champions Trophy.
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Meanwhile, senior batter Virat Kohli’s struggles also continued. Despite a century in the Perth Test, he has failed to deliver consistently, falling for 17 runs in Sydney. All seven of Kohli’s dismissals in the series have mirrored each other, as he repeatedly edged deliveries outside the off-stump.
Discussions regarding Kohli’s Test future are also likely to be on the agenda, as selectors assess his role in the team’s transition phase.
On the other hand, all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja remains a key part of India’s plans moving forward. His experience and versatility are seen as crucial as the team navigates this period of transformation.
