India’s cricket team could be without captain Rohit Sharma for one of the first two Tests in the upcoming five-match series in Australia, scheduled to begin on November 22 in Perth. The veteran batsman has reportedly communicated to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that he might miss either the first or second Test due to a pressing personal matter.
According to a BCCI source, there is currently no full clarity on the situation, but it is understood that Rohit has informed the board of the possibility that he may have to skip one of the initial games in the series. The second Test is set to take place in Adelaide from December 6-10. While there is uncertainty surrounding his availability, the source suggested that if Rohit’s personal matter is resolved before the series starts, he may play in all five Tests.
Rohit Sharma’s Leadership in Focus
Rohit Sharma, 37, has been a crucial part of India’s Test team and has captained the side during important series, including the recent home Tests against Bangladesh. His leadership and batting will be vital as India looks to challenge Australia in what is expected to be a tough series down under.
In case Rohit is unavailable for any of the matches, the in-form Abhimanyu Easwaran, who is leading the India A team in Australia, is likely to be considered as a replacement. Easwaran has been in excellent form, and with experience in Australian conditions, he would be a strong contender. However, Shubman Gill and KL Rahul, both of whom have experience opening the batting at the highest level, could also fill in for Rohit if needed.
Leadership Dilemma for India
Another issue that remains unresolved is the identity of the vice-captain of the Test team. Rohit has not had an official deputy in recent home series, including the recent Test series against Bangladesh. While there are several experienced leaders in the squad, including Shubman Gill, Jasprit Bumrah, and Rishabh Pant, no formal decision has been made regarding the vice-captaincy.
Gill, who is Rohit’s deputy in the white-ball formats, could be a natural choice. Bumrah, who captained India in a Test in England in 2021, is another viable option. Rishabh Pant, the aggressive wicket-keeper batter, is also a strong contender with his experience and leadership qualities, particularly in the IPL.
Former cricketer Abhishek Nayar, when asked about the vice-captaincy ahead of the second Test against Bangladesh, emphasized the leadership potential of India’s young squad. He noted that many of the players in the team, like Gill and Pant, have captained their IPL franchises and possess strong leadership qualities.
Nayar commented, “I wouldn’t look at them as youngsters anymore. Yes, they are youngsters in terms of age and the amount of cricket they have played. But, overall, mentally and in their development as cricketers, I think they have the leadership qualities that are required.”
India’s Test Series in Australia
The upcoming series in Australia will be a significant challenge for the Indian team. Australia, known for its formidable pace attack and challenging conditions, will look to defend their home ground against an Indian side that has been in impressive form in recent years.
The series kicks off with the first Test in Perth on November 22, followed by the second Test in Adelaide from December 6-10. With India’s focus on securing a strong start, the team will be keen to resolve any leadership or availability issues as soon as possible.
As the situation with Rohit Sharma’s availability becomes clearer, the Indian team and the BCCI will aim to ensure they are fully prepared for what promises to be a highly competitive series.
