Rohit Sharma’s Test Participation Uncertain, Trains Rigorously in Mumbai
Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma’s participation in the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia remains uncertain. However, the 37-year-old is leaving no stone unturned in his preparations, training diligently in Mumbai while awaiting the birth of his second child.
Sharma has been utilizing both Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) facilities and Reliance Corporate Park (RCP) for his training sessions. Sources indicate that he is keen on maximizing his time in India to ensure he is fully prepared for the challenges Down Under.
As for his travel to Australia, Sharma will make a decision after the birth of his child. “There is no clarity yet on his departure. It all depends on how things unfold on the personal front,” said a source. “He is doing what any father would at this stage, which is to stay with his wife and family. But at the same time, he is ensuring to be well-tuned for the Test series and will be batting at every possible opportunity in Mumbai.”
The Indian team has already departed for Perth in two batches, with the likes of Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and KL Rahul among those who have arrived in Australia. Coach Gautam Gambhir has confirmed that Bumrah will lead the team in Rohit’s absence, while Abhimanyu Easwaran and Rahul are the contenders for the opening slot.
The high-profile series gets underway in Perth on November 22 and culminates with the Sydney Test on January 3. The second Test in Adelaide will be a Day-Night fixture, and the visitors will play a two-day game in Canberra before that match.