Reports: Rohit Sharma to leave for Australia with Indian team, participation in Perth Test doubtful

Several reports have emerged that have stated that India skipper Rohit Sharma will leave for the Australia tour with the rest of his India teammates. However, despite reports of his travel, his inclusion in the first Perth Test starting on November 22, still remains in doubt. Rohit had stated that his inclusion in the playing XI for the Perth Test was not guaranteed.

According to reports, Rohit Sharma’s inclusion in the first test is subject to his personal matter. After India were whitewashed by New Zealand after they lost three consecutive Tests in Bengaluru, Pune, and Mumbai, Rohit was asked about his inclusion in the first BGT 2024-25 Test and he replied that he was still uncertain about his possible participation in the Perth Test.

“Right now, I am not too sure whether I’ll be going, but let’s see. Fingers crossed,” said Rohit during a press interaction.

“He is travelling but his participation in the 1st Test is yet not confirmed. Will see what happens next anything in regards to this. His availability is subject to his personal matter,” a source in the know was quoted as saying by News18.

A six-hour meeting was on cards after debacle: BCCI official

With India’s recent performances in the longest format, there were many questions asked about the side’s performance with the bat, its ability to play against spin, and the nature of pitches in play. Furthermore, the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) recently organised a performance review meeting with head coach Gautam Gambhir, Rohit Sharma, and Ajit Agarkar.

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“It was a six-hour marathon meeting which was obviously on cards after such a debacle. India are going on a tour of Australia and the BCCI would obviously like to ensure that the team is back on track and would like to know how the think-tank (Gambhir-Rohit-Agarkar) are going about it," a BCCI source said.

With the whitewash against New Zealand, India’s chances of reaching the World Test Championship final have become increasingly difficult. The side will have to put in a good showing in the BGT 2024-25 in order to reach their third straight WTC final.