The internal dynamics within the Indian camp on the eve of the fifth and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy garnered significant attention as the crucial match approached. Amidst numerous calls for Rohit Sharma's removal from the team due to his poor performance, some strong advocates questioned the rationale behind his potential exclusion mid-series in Australia.

Former Indian opener Navjot Singh Sidhu, in a video shared on his social media profile on platform X, expressed his staunch support for Rohit. “It is quite unusual that the Indian captain, Rohit Sharma, was omitted from the team today. This is unprecedented and perplexing, as it marks the first instance in Indian cricket history where a captain has been sidelined,” Sidhu articulated.

The television personality and former MLA elaborated, stating, “One does not simply appoint someone as captain; however, if such a distinguished player, who has significantly contributed to Indian cricket, is already in that role, his current form—be it positive or negative—should not be a concern. The position of captain cannot be casually relinquished, as doing so conveys inappropriate messages,” Sidhu clarified.

The end of the road for Rohit?

There have been speculations regarding the circumstances surrounding Rohit Sharma's absence from the Indian team at the SCG, with Jasprit Bumrah assuming the role of captain for the final match of the series. According to various reports, a potential clash of personalities between coach Gautam Gambhir and Rohit Sharma may have contributed to a strained dynamic within the leadership group from the outset.

Sidhu remarked, “Whether you choose to sit him out or provide him with the option, management should not allow this captain the choice to step aside. The captain, who has developed the team, instilled confidence, and consistently served as a mentor to younger players, should not detach from his responsibilities, even in challenging times. It is an erroneous decision,” he asserted with conviction.

While Rohit has stepped down, the long-term implications of this decision and his potential return to the Test team remain uncertain. The Indian top order faced difficulties in Sydney, with the leading four batsmen contributing a mere 51 runs as the team was dismissed for 185.

Rohit faced criticism for overseeing India's first home series defeat in 12 years, with the 3-0 whitewash against New Zealand marking the beginning of a decline in his standing, compounded by three underwhelming performances in Adelaide, Brisbane, and Melbourne that led to such a significant decision during the tour.

Read Also: Virat Kohli Faces Rohit Sharma's Dilemma: Is His Career at Risk Amid Learning Resistance?

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