Sydney, Jan 2 (NationPress) India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir has yet to verify Rohit Sharma's inclusion in the decisive Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground. He mentioned that the beleaguered captain's position in the playing XI will be finalized after evaluating the wicket on the day of the match.
Rohit has been facing challenges with his batting performance, and his team is currently trailing 2-1 in the five-match series. The regular captain missed the victory in Perth due to the arrival of his second child. Since rejoining the squad post the second Test, he has accumulated only 31 runs, averaging a mere 6.20.
"Everything is fine with Rohit, and I don’t believe it’s anything customary (in terms of addressing the pre-match press conference). The head coach is present, and that should suffice. We will examine the wicket and finalize our decision tomorrow," Gambhir told reporters in Sydney.
When further questioned about whether Rohit, who participated in a nets session during India’s pre-match training, would feature in the Sydney Test, Gambhir reiterated, “I just mentioned we will assess the wicket and announce the playing XI tomorrow. The response remains unchanged.”
However, Gambhir confirmed that fast bowler Akash Deep will be sidelined for the fifth Test due to a back injury, although he did not disclose a replacement.
"Akash Deep is out because of a back issue. That’s the only injury concern," Gambhir stated.
With Australia leading the series 2-1, they aim to claim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Sydney with a refreshed lineup, while India is determined to retain the series.
India needs to secure a victory in the Sydney Test to keep their slim hopes of reaching the World Test Championship final alive. They also require Australia not to win either of their two Test matches in Sri Lanka to solidify their position for the Lord's summit clash in June.
The fifth and final Test is set to commence on Friday at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
