Rohit Sharma's Inclusion Recommended, Coach Gambhir Rejects Request

Rohit Sharma, the Indian cricket team captain, was dropped from the playing XI for the fifth and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy held in Sydney, following a series of poor performances. Team management opted for young batter Shubman Gill in his place. However, an intriguing development reportedly took place before the final team selection.

According to a PTI report, a highly influential cricket administrator from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) approached India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir, requesting Sharma’s retention in the final XI. Gambhir, however, declined the request, citing the match's critical importance for India’s qualification to the World Test Championship (WTC) final.

“The individual who approached Gambhir holds immense respect within the BCCI. They urged Gambhir to reconsider playing Rohit Sharma in the Sydney Test. However, Gambhir refused, emphasizing the need to prioritize the team’s chances of winning this crucial game. Despite being left out, Sharma seemed composed and held amicable discussions with vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah, selection committee chairman Ajit Agarkar, and Gambhir afterward,” the PTI report stated.

Rohit Sharma faced severe criticism for his underwhelming performance during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Over five innings, he managed only 31 runs, with multiple dismissals in single digits, leading to growing discontent among fans and former cricketers