Former Indian cricket team coach and veteran player Ravi Shastri has said that it will not be surprising if captain Rohit Sharma decides to retire from Test cricket. However, he also said that if Rohit gets a chance to play the farewell Test in Sydney, he should play without any pressure.
Border-Gavaskar trophy at stake
The Indian team is trailing 1-2 in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) between India and Australia. This last test match will be played at Sydney Cricket Ground.
- Importance of Series:
If India wins this test, then the series will be drawn 2-2 and the trophy will remain with India, because India has not lost this trophy for the last decade.
Gautam Gambhir expressed uncertainty over Rohit’s play
Before the Sydney Test, Indian team head coach Gautam Gambhir did not confirm Rohit Sharma’s play.
- Gambhir’s statement:
“The playing eleven will be decided during the toss after seeing the pitch.”Due to this, there are speculations that the Indian team may give a chance to Shubman Gill, who is waiting on the bench.
Shastri’s suggestion: “Explode and go”
Shastri said in the ICC review that Rohit Sharma should play fearlessly in Sydney.
- “If I was around Rohit, I would tell him: go on the field and have a blast.”
- He also said that Rohit should adopt an aggressive attitude and put pressure on the opposition team.
Shastri’s hint: chances of retirement
Shastri said on the possibility of Rohit’s retirement:
- “If Rohit retires, I will not be surprised. “His age is increasing now and there are young players like Shubhman Gill in the team, who is playing at an average of more than 40 in 2024.”
- Shastri also added that if India qualifies for the World Test Championship final, the situation could be different.
Shastri’s view regarding Shubman Gill
On the possibility of including Gill in the playing eleven in place of Rohit, Shastri said:
- “It is surprising to see a player of Shubman Gill’s quality sitting on the bench.”
- He believes that Gill should get a chance to play, because his performance and form can prove beneficial for the team.
Why is Sydney Test important for Rohit?
Sydney Test could be the turning point of Rohit’s career.
- Decision to retire:
This match could be the perfect opportunity for him to perform brilliantly, especially if he is planning to bid goodbye to Test cricket. - Contribution to the team:
A win in Sydney will not only make Rohit’s career memorable but will also give India a chance to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
