India vs Australia 2024: Skipper's revelation on Rohit Sharma's absence for 1st Test at Perth

New Delhi: Speculation surrounds the Indian cricket team ahead of the first Test match against Australia, with captain Rohit Sharma's availability in doubt. When questioned about his participation in the upcoming Test in Perth, Rohit stated that he is unsure whether he will be able to play. Former cricketer Abhinav Mukund has fueled rumors that Rohit and his wife Ritika Sajdeh are expecting their second child, potentially leading to Rohit missing the Test match. Stay tuned for further updates on Rohit's status for the crucial match.

The Indian team is set to play a five-match Test series against Australia starting in Perth on November 22. “I don’t know if I will go or not, but I am hopeful,” Rohit said after India’s 25-run loss in the third and final Test against New Zealand.

ROHIT SHARMA ON HIS AVAILABLITY FOR PERTH TEST:

“Right now, I am not too sure whether I will be going but let’s see Fingers crossed”. [RevSportz] pic.twitter.com/QTb82o8aBG

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) November 3, 2024

If Rohit is unable to play in the first Test, then vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah will lead the team in the first match of the series, while Abhimanyu Easwaran can play as his cover. After India lost the series 0-3 at home against New Zealand, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy will become even more important as both the teams are again trying to reach the final of the World Test Championship (WTC).

India lost the third and final Test against New Zealand by 25 runs on Sunday, resulting in their first humiliating 0-3 defeat at home. The Indian team was all out for 121 runs while chasing a target of 147 runs.

Rohit said in the post-match press conference, “This kind of performance will be the worst phase of my career and I take full responsibility for it.” He said that losing the Test series at home in this manner cannot be ‘digested easily’.