Reports confirming the most significant topic of discussion in Indian cricket leading up to the fifth Test against Australia indicate that Jasprit Bumrah, rather than Rohit Sharma, represented the team during the toss at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Friday. The fast bowler won the toss and chose to bat on a fresh and lively SCG pitch; however, this was not the primary focus of the morning. The noteworthy aspect was Bumrah's presence at the toss in place of the regular captain, Rohit.

Questions arose regarding Rohit Sharma's absence: Was he dropped? Was he injured? Did he choose to retire? Would he participate in Test cricket again? Some of these inquiries were addressed by Bumrah, who revealed that Rohit had made the decision to sit out the final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

"Our captain has demonstrated leadership by opting to rest in this game," Bumrah stated during the toss.

The world's top-ranked bowler also emphasized that Rohit's selfless decision reflects the unity within the Indian team, a point that had been scrutinized following India's defeat to Australia at the MCG. "This illustrates the strong unity in our team. There is no selfishness. We are focused on what is best for the team," Bumrah added.

Shubman Gill replaces Rohit Sharma in India's XI

Shubman Gill has taken Rohit Sharma's place in India's playing XI. The right-handed batsman, who was omitted from the previous match, will bat at the No. 3 position, while KL Rahul will return to open the innings alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal. Additionally, India has made another adjustment in their bowling lineup, as fast bowler Akash Deep is unavailable due to a back injury. He will be replaced by Prasidh Krishna, who is set to make his debut in this series.

"We have performed admirably throughout this series. The last match was quite thrilling. We hope to deliver another strong performance. The pitch appears to have some grass, but it does not seem overly challenging. There will be difficulties with the new ball, but if we can navigate that phase, it should provide a good batting surface. We have made two changes: Rohit is resting, and Akash Deep is injured, so Prasidh steps in," Bumrah stated.

The situation became apparent when head coach Gautam Gambhir, on the eve of the series finale, declined to confirm Rohit Sharma's availability, despite being questioned twice by different reporters during the pre-match press conference. Subsequently, Rohit was observed absent from the slip cordon, where Virat Kohli was stationed at first slip during India's fielding drills in Sydney. The Indian captain largely missed the training session, refraining from fielding practice and only padded up after the regular batsmen had completed their net sessions.