India captain Rohit Sharma finally addressed speculations about his absence in the fifth Test against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground. After opting to ‘rest’ for the final match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, rumors emerged about Rohit’s possible retirement in the Test. However, in a candid interview with Star Sports, Rohit set the record straight and stated that he will not be walking away from the game anytime soon.
“I gave up. That’s what I would say,” Rohit began, reflecting on his decision not to take part in the Sydney Test. “I wasn’t scoring runs and the team needed fit players. “It was a difficult decision, but the right one for the team.”
“This is not a retirement decision”
Rohit’s poor run of form in Australia (scoring just 31 runs in five innings) led to him stepping aside for the crucial Test. His absence sparked reports that his Test career could be over, with some suggesting that the selectors had already informed him of the end of his journey to the red ball.
But Rohit rubbished those claims and made it clear that his decision to sit out was based solely on form, not retirement.
“This decision is not a retirement decision. “I am not going anywhere,” Rohit stated firmly. “I believe in myself. There’s no guarantee I won’t score runs after five months. Cricket changes every day and I have faith that things will change.”
“I have to be realistic”
At 38, Rohit recognized the need to be realistic about his form and future. He admitted that he has matured over the years and understands his role within the team.
“I’ve played this game for so long. No one from outside can decide when I should leave, stay out or lead the team,” he said. “I am a sensible man, a mature man, father of two children. “I know what I want in life.”
Rohit also had a message for those speculating about his future. “Someone sitting in front of a microphone or a laptop cannot dictate my career. I have been playing cricket for many years and I make my own decisions,” he adds with a smile.
“I don’t want to live anywhere.”
During the interview, when the host thanked Rohit for his service as India’s Test captain, Rohit humorously replied, “Arre kahin ja nahi raha hu main” (I’m not going anywhere).
His statement reiterated his commitment to Indian cricket. Despite his absence from the Sydney Test, Rohit confirmed that he will continue to play for India, particularly in the ODI format, where he remains the captain for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025.
Rohit’s decision to step aside opened the door for Shubman Gill to return to the playing XI. Gill, who was dropped for the Boxing Day Test, replaced Rohit at the top of the order. Meanwhile, Prasidh Krishna replaced the injured Akash Deep.
India needed a win in the Sydney Test to level the series after trailing 1-2. Under stand-in captain Jasprit Bumrah, the visitors got off to an impressive start, reducing Australia to 39/4 in 12 overs on Day 2.
What’s in store for Rohit Sharma?
Although Rohit’s future in the Test remains uncertain, he remains optimistic about making a comeback. He put aside comments about retirement and focused on the present and his goal of contributing to India’s success.
“I haven’t come this far to just sit on the sidelines,” he said. “I want to win games for my team. But sometimes you need to think about the team’s needs more than your own form. “It’s 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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