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India’s disappointing 1-3 loss in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 against Australia has left serious questions about Rohit Sharma’s position in the team.
Rohit Sharma’s future in doubt after Border-Gavaskar Trophy debacle
Rohit endured a forgettable series with the bat, managing just 31 runs across five matches, a stark contrast to the high expectations placed on him. Under his leadership, India failed to secure a single Test victory, marking their first BGT loss in eight years. The disastrous tour has ignited speculation about Rohit’s retirement, not only from Test cricket but possibly from all formats of the game. Even before the Australian tour, India suffered a historic whitewash under Rohit’s leadership at home against New Zealand. Such talks have gained momentum after his underwhelming performances, coupled with India’s inability to dominate in crucial matches, raising concerns over his future contributions in the longest format.
Adam Gilchrist’s perspective on Rohit’s retirement
Former Australian wicketkeeper and Rohit’s ex-Indian Premier League (IPL) captain at the Deccan Chargers, Adam Gilchrist, has weighed in on the Indian skipper’s future in international cricket. Speaking on the Club Prairie Fire podcast, Gilchrist expressed his belief that Rohit might retire from international cricket soon, potentially following the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
He also hinted that the England Test series, scheduled for June 2025, may not feature Rohit in the Indian squad, marking a potential shift in the team’s leadership and composition. According to Gilchrist, the 37-year-old’s priorities might now focus on family and limited-overs cricket, suggesting a natural transition for the veteran cricketer.
“I don’t see Rohit going to England. I just felt that he says he will assess it when he gets home. The first thing he will be met with is a two-month-old baby that he has to change the nappies on. Now that might incentivize him to go to England. But I think he’ll probably have a crack at the Champions Trophy, and that might see him out,” Gilchrist said.
Also READ: AUS vs IND: Ravi Shastri speaks out on Rohit Sharma’s potential Test retirement
India’s upcoming cricket calendar and Rohit’s role
India has a packed cricketing schedule in the coming months, starting with a home white-ball series against England. This series will serve as a crucial preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy, which is slated to commence on February 19, 2025. Rohit is expected to lead the team in this marquee tournament, a competition India will aim to win, given their historical success in ICC events.
Following the Champions Trophy, India is set to tour England for a high-stakes five-match Test series, beginning on June 20, 2025, at Headingley. This tour will be a pivotal moment for the Indian team, as they aim to secure their first Test series victory on English soil since 2007. The last England tour in 2022 ended in a 2-2 draw, leaving unfinished business for both teams. With the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle set to start anew, this series will also shape the team’s roadmap for the future. However, with Gilchrist’s comments casting doubt over Rohit’s participation, the series could mark the beginning of a new leadership era for Indian Test cricket.
