India captain Rohit Sharma He finally addressed the speculation surrounding his absence from the fifth Test against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground. After being picked to rest for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy final, rumors were rife about Rohit's possible retirement from the Test. However, in a candid interview with Star Sports, Rohit set the record straight, asserting that he will not be stepping away from the game anytime soon.
“I stood up. “That's what I would say,” Rohit began as he reflected on his decision not to take part in the Sydney Test. “I wasn't scoring runs, and the team needed players at the top of their game. “It was a difficult decision, but it was the right decision for the team.”
“This is not a retirement decision.”
Rohit's poor patch in Australia – where he scored just 31 runs in five innings – prompted him to step aside for the crucial Test. His absence has led to reports that his Test career may be over, with some suggesting that the selectors have already informed him of the end of his red-ball journey.
But Rohit denied the allegations, explaining that his decision to withdraw was based only on form and not on retirement.
“This is not a retirement decision. “I am not going anywhere,” Rohit stated firmly. “I believe in myself. There is no guarantee that I will not score points after five months. Cricket changes every day and I have faith that things will change.
“I have to be realistic”
At the age of 38, Rohit admitted the need to be realistic about his form and future. He admitted that he has matured over the years and realized his role within the team.
“I have played this game for a long time. No one from the outside can decide when I should go, leave or lead the team. “I am a sensible man, a mature man, a father of two children. I know what I want in life.”
Rohit also had a message for those speculating about his future. “No one person sitting with a microphone or a laptop can dictate my career. I have played cricket for many years, and I make my own decisions,” he added with a smile.
“Main kahin ja nahi raha”
During the interview, when the anchor thanked Rohit for his service as India's Test captain, Rohit humorously responded, “Arre kahin ja nahi raha hu main” (I'm not going anywhere).
His statement reiterated his commitment to Indian cricket. Despite missing the Sydney Test, Rohit confirmed that he will continue to play for India, especially in the ODI format, as he remains captain for the upcoming 2025 Champions Trophy.
Rohit's decision to step down opened the door for Shubman Gill to return to the starting XI. Gill, who was ruled out of the Boxing Day Test, replaced Rohit at the top of the order. Meanwhile, Prasidh Krishna came in place of the injured Akash Deb.
India needed a win in the Sydney Test to level the series after trailing 1-2. Under stand-in skipper Jasprit Bumrah, the visitors got off to a flying start, reducing Australia to 39/4 in 12 overs on the second day.
What lies ahead for Rohit Sharma?
Although Rohit's Test future remains uncertain, he remains optimistic about a comeback. He ignored talk of retirement, focusing instead on the present and his goal of contributing to India's success.
“I didn't come this far just to sit,” he said. “I want to win games for my team. But sometimes, you need to think about the team's needs instead of thinking about your level. It's all about teamwork.”
With the 2025 Champions Trophy just around the corner, Rohit's leadership in the ODI format will be crucial. His performance in the tournament could determine his future in international cricket.
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