Sydney [Australia], January 2: Indian captain Rohit Sharma is expected to be rested for the fifth Test against Australia in Sydney, with Jasprit Bumrah set to lead the team, according to sources.
Rohit has struggled for form in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, scoring just 31 runs so far. He missed the first Test in Perth but joined the team in Adelaide. However, his performances have not been impactful since his return to the squad.
Jasprit Bumrah, who has been in excellent form throughout the series, captained India in the first Test in Perth, leading the team to a dominant 295-run win over Australia. He is now poised to take charge for the final Test as well.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, head coach Gautam Gambhir revealed that the playing XI will be announced after assessing the pitch at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
“Every individual knows which areas they need to work on. When you play for your country, you want to give your best. I think the discussions between a player and a coach should remain private and restricted to the dressing room,” said Gambhir.
Regarding Rohit’s participation in the Sydney Test, Gambhir assured fans that “everything is fine” with the captain. He added, “We will announce the playing XI tomorrow after evaluating the pitch. We have had one main conversation in our dressing room – how we will win the next test, as it is crucial for us.”
Australia’s 184-run victory over India in the Melbourne Test has put India in a precarious position, with the hosts leading the series 2-1. This defeat has also dampened India’s hopes of qualifying for the World Test Championship (WTC) Final at Lord’s early next year.