Rohit Sharma may miss the first two Tests of the crucial series in Australia

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Rohit Sharma may miss the first two Tests of the crucial series in Australia

In what could be a crucial setback for Team India, the captain Rohit Sharma it is reported that he may miss one of the first two Test matches in the upcoming tour of Australia. The 2024-25 Border Gavaskar Trophy, comprising five Tests, is not only important for India’s performance in Australia but also for its standing in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.

Rohit Sharma informs BCCI

According to a report by the Press Trust of India (PTI), Rohit has informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that he may have to miss the first Test in Perth (November 22-26) or the second Test. in Adelaide (December 6-10) due to personal reasons. The report says that although Rohit’s absence has not been confirmed but he may sit out one of the opening matches depending on how the situation progresses.

“There is no complete clarity about this situation. Rohit is understood to have told the BCCI that due to a pressing personal matter, he may have to skip one of the two Tests at the start of the series. If a personal matter is arranged before the start of the series, he may play all five Tests. We will know more in the coming days,” a BCCI source told PTI.

India will play five Test matches in Australia for the first time since the 1991-92 season. The series will open with a match in Perth, followed by the Day-Night Test at the Adelaide Oval, and then the third Test at The Gabba from December 14. The historic Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground will be played from December 26, and the final match of the series will be hosted at Sydney Cricket Ground Ground (SCG) from January 3, 2025.

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Who will open for India in Rohit Sharma’s absence?

Rohit’s absence could have a big impact on the Indian side, especially given his leadership and experience in overseas situations. If he misses the game, the team management may turn to the form Abhimanyu Easwaranwho is currently part of the India A squad that will tour Australia again. Easwaran has shown consistent performances at the domestic level and would be a strong candidate to step in. Shubman Gillwho is also a veteran starter, is another option the team could consider.

Speaking of Rohit, he has played seven Tests for Australia, scoring 408 runs at an average of 31.38, including three half-centuries, and a top score of 63 not out. His experience and leadership will be crucial if India are to win this crucial series and secure a place in the WTC finals. India currently leads the WTC 2023-25 cycle with 98 points, having won eight of the 11 tests.

With the WTC finals just around the corner, Team India will be looking to build on their momentum and avoid any setbacks. Rohit’s presence will be crucial, but his possible absence raises questions about how India will adapt without their captain in one of cricket’s most challenging tours.