Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma finally addressed his decision to sit out the ongoing Sydney Test against Australia. Jasprit Bumrah is leading the team in his absence due to Rohit’s ongoing form struggles.
Rohit Denies Retirement Rumors
Contrary to rumors about a rift with coach Gautam Gambhir and speculations that the BCCI might drop him, Rohit firmly stated that he is not retiring. He is confident that a strong comeback is possible. “This decision is not about retirement, I am not leaving. I am sitting out of this match because runs are not coming,” he told reporters during the Lunch break. Furthermore, he added, “There’s no guarantee poor form will continue after 5 months. I believe in myself that things will change.”
Rohit on Criticism and Form Struggles
Rohit also addressed external criticism, stating that he doesn’t let others’ opinions influence his decisions. “We have played cricket for so many years. These people cannot decide when we should leave, when we should play, or when we should captain,” he remarked.
Rohit Explains His Decision to Step Down
Rohit clarified that sitting out of the Sydney Test was a decision he made after talking to the coach and selectors. “I stood down, that is what I would say,” he said. He emphasized, “You can’t carry out-of-form players for too long.” Additionally, he revealed that the coach and selectors gave him the freedom to make the final call, and stepping aside felt like the right move for the team.
A Tough Call for Rohit Sharma
Rohit explained that he made the decision after arriving in Sydney. Since it was New Year’s, he didn’t want to burden the selectors at that time. “I tried a lot but nothing was happening, so it was important for me to step aside,” he said.
Despite his struggles, Rohit remains determined. He has scored only 31 runs in five innings across three Tests in the ongoing Border Gavaskar Series.
