Following the defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia, focus has now turned to the forthcoming ICC Champions Trophy, set to commence on February 19. India will initiate their tournament journey on February 20, facing Bangladesh in Dubai. Ajit Agarkar, the chairman of selectors, is anticipated to reveal the squad for the eight-team event on Sunday, January 19.

In preparation for the tournament, Rohit Sharma, who is likely to captain India in Dubai, was observed diligently practicing, accompanied by all-rounder Hardik Pandya.

The 37-year-old Rohit has struggled significantly with his form, managing only 31 runs across five innings in the three Tests against Australia. His performance deteriorated to the extent that he had to withdraw from the Sydney Test, with Jasprit Bumrah stepping in as captain during his absence.

Rohit was seen batting under the lights at the Reliance Corporate Park in Navi Mumbai, while Hardik Pandya was actively bowling to him.

The right-handed Rohit practiced various shots, including late cuts and pull shots, raising hopes that he will regain his form in the upcoming Champions Trophy.

Both Rohit and Hardik are expected to be key players in India's Champions Trophy lineup, and it will be interesting to see the combination that Ajit Agarkar and the selection committee will finalize for the tournament.

Reflecting on Rohit and Hardik, the duo attracted significant attention last year when Hardik assumed the captaincy of the Mumbai Indians. Hardik faced considerable criticism at the Wankhede Stadium, and the atmosphere within the dressing room of the five-time IPL champions was notably challenging.

Will Rohit play in the Ranji Trophy?

Rohit Sharma was recently observed training with the Mumbai Ranji Trophy team in preparation for their upcoming match against Jammu and Kashmir, scheduled to take place in Mumbai on January 23.

It remains uncertain whether Rohit Sharma will be available for this match. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has recently issued a 10-point directive to players, emphasizing that participation in state teams for domestic cricket is essential for those seeking selection and central contracts.

Furthermore, the BCCI has indicated that disciplinary measures may be enforced against players who do not adhere to these guidelines.

In a related note, Hardik Pandya has recently joined Baroda's squad for the Vijay Hazare Trophy. During his participation in three matches of this prestigious domestic 50-over tournament, Hardik Pandya accumulated 11 runs and claimed three wickets.

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