Rohit Sharma Opts Out of Sydney Test: Jasprit Bumrah to Lead India
In a surprising turn of events, Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma opts out of the fifth and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia, which is set to begin on Friday at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). This decision has paved the way for ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah to take on the captaincy mantle for the series finale. Here’s everything you need to know about this development and its implications for Team India.
Reason for Opting Out
Rohit Sharma has been struggling with form, averaging just 10.93 over his last nine Tests and a mere 6.2 in this series. Amid the ongoing controversy around the Indian cricket team in Australia, it has been learned that Rohit will be ‘rested’ for the final fixture of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy2. He informed headcoach Gautam Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar about the decision that Rohit Sharma opts out, which was met with a cordial response.
Jasprit Bumrah to Lead
In Rohit’s absence, vice-captain and star pacer Jasprit Bumrah will lead the Indian side for the series finale. Bumrah had previously led the team to an emphatic 295-run win in the series opener at Perth when Rohit was on paternity leave1. With the series on the line, Bumrah’s leadership will be crucial in India’s quest to level the series and retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Team Changes
With Rohit opting out, ace batter KL Rahul will be back to opening the innings alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal. Shubman Gill, who was dropped from the fourth Test amid poor form, will get another opportunity to prove his mettle3. The team is expected to see changes with potential debuts for players like pacer Prasidh Krishna.
Impact on Team India
Rohit Sharma opts out has significant implications for Team India. His absence will be felt, especially given his experience and leadership qualities. However, this also provides an opportunity for other players to step up and make a mark. Bumrah’s leadership will be under the spotlight as he aims to guide the team to victory in this crucial match.
Conclusion
Rohit Sharma’s decision to opt out of the Sydney Test has added a new dimension to the series finale. With Jasprit Bumrah stepping in as captain, Team India will be looking to put up a strong performance and level the series. Fans are eagerly waiting to see how the team adapts to this change and performs under Bumrah’s leadership.
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FAQs
Q1: Why did Rohit Sharma opt out of the Sydney Test? Rohit Sharma opted out of the Sydney Test due to his ongoing struggle with form and to rest for the final fixture of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Q2: Who will captain India in Rohit Sharma’s absence? Jasprit Bumrah will captain India in Rohit Sharma’s absence for the Sydney Test.
Q3: What changes are expected in the Indian team for the Sydney Test? KL Rahul will return to open the innings alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Shubman Gill will get another opportunity. There may also be potential debuts for players like pacer Prasidh Krishna.
Q4: How has Rohit Sharma performed in recent Tests? Rohit Sharma has been struggling with form, averaging just 10.93 over his last nine Tests and a mere 6.2 in this series.
Q5: What is the significance of the Sydney Test for Team India? The Sydney Test is crucial for Team India as they aim to level the series and retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy under Jasprit Bumrah’s leadership.
Q6: How has Jasprit Bumrah performed as a captain in the past? Jasprit Bumrah led India to an emphatic 295-run win in the series opener at Perth when Rohit was on paternity leave.
