Rohit Sharma will rejoin the Indian cricket team on November 24 for the first Test in Perth against Australia. Discover how his return impacts the team.
India’s Test captain, Rohit Sharma, is expected to rejoin the squad on November 24, during the first Test of the series against Australia at the Optus Stadium, Perth. Cricbuzz reports that Rohit will leave India in a few days. He missed the team’s departure due to his second child’s birth. He will be available for the second Test in Adelaide.
In Rohit’s absence, Jasprit Bumrah will lead the Indian side for the opening Test starting on November 22. The captain’s return on the third day of the Perth Test will boost the team’s morale. They hope to bounce back after a disappointing home series against New Zealand.
Rohit Sharma’s Availability Timeline
Rohit Sharma’s absence in the Perth Test was confirmed. He stayed in India for the birth of his second child on November 15. Jasprit Bumrah will lead India in the opener. Rohit is expected to fly out soon and join the team by the third day of the match.
Rohit’s leadership will resume in the second Test in Adelaide, a pink-ball match, on December 6. India needs their seasoned skipper back for the day-night Test. His return is crucial for their chances to reach the WTC Final.
India Under Pressure Following Series Loss to New Zealand
India faces Australia in a high-stakes series. It follows a 3-0 ODI whitewash at home by New Zealand. That defeat has added pressure on the visitors. They must win their next series to reach the WTC Final.
Speculation about Rohit Sharma’s availability began during the New Zealand series. It grew after he decided to delay his travel for family reasons. India’s task is tougher without their captain for two days. Australia’s pace attack and a fast pitch at the Optus Stadium make it harder.
Impact on India’s Batting Line-Up
India’s batting lineup faces further complications ahead of the Perth Test. Shubman Gill, who was set to bat at No. 3, injured his finger during a practice session and is unlikely to feature in the opener. In his absence, KL Rahul is expected to move up and open the innings, while Devdutt Padikkal could fill the No. 3 spot.
With Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill absent, pressure mounts on Virat Kohli and the other batters. They must step up in these crucial opening days of the series.
Australia’s Preparedness Ahead of the Perth Test
Unlike India, Australia enters the series with no major injury concerns. Their players are in excellent form and eager to exploit the fast, bouncy conditions at the Optus Stadium. The hosts must rely on their pace trio: Cummins, Starc, and Hazlewood. They will target India’s shaky top order.
Also, Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne are key to Australia’s batting. They are prolific run-scorers at home. They must help attack a weakened Indian team from the start.
Key Takeaways
- Rohit Sharma’s Return: Rohit will join the Indian squad for the first Test. He will replace Jasprit Bumrah as captain for the second Test in Adelaide.
- India’s Challenges: India is under pressure after losing a series to New Zealand. The absence of key players, like Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, adds to this.
- Australia’s Edge: With a fit squad and home advantage, Australia can exploit India’s weaknesses at Perth.
