Rohit Sharma Excluded from BCCI’s Test Plans; Kohli’s Future Under Review

In a major shake-up in Indian cricket, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly informed Rohit Sharma that he is no longer in their Test cricket plans after the ongoing series against Australia. The Indian Express reported this development, signaling a transitional phase for the team.

Leadership Changes Ahead

  • India faces a challenging path to qualify for the World Test Championship (WTC) Final.
  • If India secures a spot in the WTC Final, Jasprit Bumrah is expected to take over the captaincy.
  • Selectors are also scheduled to meet with Virat Kohli to deliberate on his role in Test cricket moving forward.
  • All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja is likely to remain integral to the team during this transitional period.
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at Kohli's Struggles Cos Again, Booed at SCG
Virat Kohli’s Struggles Continue: Edges to Slips Again, Booed at SCG

Rohit’s Struggles and Speculation

Rohit Sharma’s dismal performance in the ongoing series has been a key factor in his exclusion. Across three matches, he has managed an average of just 6.2, with a top score of 10. Speculation about his place in the final Test intensified after head coach Gautam Gambhir refrained from confirming his spot in the playing XI.

Sharma’s decision to sit out the fifth Test at the SCG, reportedly to rest, allowed vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah to step in as captain.

Emotional Exit

Rishabh Pant, during the post-day press conference, described Sharma’s absence as an emotional moment for the team.

“It was an emotional decision because he’s been the captain for a long time. We see him as the leader of the team. There are some decisions you’re not involved in; it was a call by the management,” Pant said.

Bumrah’s Positive Leadership

Jasprit Bumrah has brought a fresh approach to the team’s mindset.

“The message from Bumrah is to stay positive and give your best every day. That’s the leadership we need to move forward,” Pant added.

Transition Period for Indian Cricket

As India gears up for the next cycle of Test cricket, the focus is on rebuilding the team with new faces and strategies. With Rohit Sharma potentially playing his last Test match and discussions around Kohli’s future, the team is entering a transformative phase.

The ongoing fifth Test at the SCG not only decides the series outcome but also sets the stage for a new era in Indian cricket.

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