The move comes amid Sharma’s poor form in the ongoing five-match Test series, where he has managed just 31 runs in three matches
GUWAHATI: Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma is likely to be rested for the crucial fifth Test match against Australia on Thursday, January 2. Fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah is set to take over the captaincy duties in Rohit’s absence.
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According to reports, the move comes amid Sharma’s poor form in the ongoing five-match Test series, where he has managed just 31 runs in three matches.
Rohit missed the first Test due to the birth of his second child but, since returning to the team, has struggled to make an impact with the bat. His poor form raises concerns for India, who are trailing 1-2 in the series and need a win in Sydney to keep their hopes alive for a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final.
During a pre-match press conference on Wednesday, head coach Gautam Gambhir hinted that the decision would depend on the pitch conditions. “We are going to have a look at the wicket and finalise it tomorrow. The answer remains the same,” Gambhir said, leaving the future unclear.
India’s defeat in the Melbourne Test further complicates their path to the WTC Final, as they now depend on other results, including the series between Australia and Sri Lanka. Without a win in the Sydney Test, India’s chances of reaching the final could be dented.
