Following a crushing 0-3 Test series loss to New Zealand on home turf, Indian captain Rohit Sharma is set to miss the opening match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia on November 22. His participation in the first Test in Perth remains uncertain due to personal reasons, and he indicated that he is still “not sure” if he will be available. In his absence, vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah will lead the team, with Abhimanyu Easwaran expected to fill in as a replacement.
Rohit was visibly disappointed after India’s third Test loss by 25 runs at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium, marking a significant setback just months after India’s T20 World Cup victory. At the post-match conference, Rohit described the series as a major low point in his career, stating, “I take full responsibility for the outcome.” In the final match, New Zealand set India a modest target of 147 runs, but India was bowled out for 121 on the third day, ultimately sealing the series defeat. Rohit expressed frustration, acknowledging that “losing a series or a Test match is never easy,” and conceded that New Zealand played better cricket throughout.
Reflecting on the team’s shortcomings, Rohit explained that India struggled to post strong first-innings totals in the initial two Tests, which set the tone for the series. In the final game, despite securing a slim 28-run lead, India faltered in their chase of the achievable target. “When you are chasing, you need those runs on the board,” Rohit said, noting that the collective performance “did not come off as planned.”
The Indian skipper also took ownership of his personal struggles, as he managed only 91 runs across six innings at an average of 15. Acknowledging both his role as a leader and a batsman, Rohit stated, “I was not at my best, either in captaincy or with the bat.” His honest assessment underscores a commitment to regroup and perform as a unit, aiming for a stronger showing in the upcoming series.
