IND vs AUS: Rohit Sharma’s Decision to Rest Sparks Retirement Speculation
Rohit Sharma made a significant decision to rest himself in the final match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy being played in Sydney, with Jasprit Bumrah leading the team in his absence. At the toss, Bumrah revealed that Rohit had chosen to take a break. However, former India captain and legendary batsman Sunil Gavaskar has expressed a differing opinion, suggesting that Rohit may have played his final Test match and that it’s time for India to look beyond him.
A conversation between head coach Gautam Gambhir and the dressing room after the Melbourne Test match has gone viral, further fueling speculation. Rohit Sharma has been struggling with poor form and was expected to deliver when the team needed him most. However, he has been unable to perform at the desired level, leading to his decision to step aside.
Speaking to Star Sports, Sunil Gavaskar said, “I don’t think India will qualify for the finals of the World Test Championship. I believe the Melbourne Test was Rohit’s last Test match. The next World Test Championship cycle will start with the England series, and Team India will likely look for players who can contribute until the 2027 final. Regardless of whether India makes it to the final, I think the selection committee will move on from Rohit. At this point, I believe we have seen him play his last Test match.”
Former India coach Ravi Shastri echoed Gavaskar’s sentiments, stating, “If there had been a home Test series after this, he might have considered continuing. But I think he will retire after this match. He’s 38 years old now, and India has a pool of young players ready to step up.”
This match is crucial for India, as a loss would end their hopes of qualifying for the ICC World Test Championship final. Even if India wins, their chances depend on Australia losing their two-match Test series against Sri Lanka. In such a scenario, India could still reach the final.
As Gavaskar pointed out, India’s qualification seems unlikely, and if they fail to make it to the final, Rohit Sharma may bid farewell to Test cricket, marking the Melbourne Test as his last.
