Former Australian cricketer Aaron Finch has voiced strong disagreement with Sunil Gavaskar’s suggestion that Jasprit Bumrah should captain India for the full Test series against Australia if Rohit Sharma is unavailable for the first match. Gavaskar recently suggested that if Rohit misses the first Test, the leadership should be handed to Bumrah for continuity, even upon Rohit’s return.
Sunil Gavaskar: Consistency in Captaincy
Speaking on Sports Tak, Sunil Gavaskar emphasised the importance of having a captain from the very beginning of a series. “It is important for the captain to play the first Test match. It’s different if he is injured, but if he is not available, then the deputy leader will be under a lot of pressure,” Gavaskar commented.
He elaborated that, in his view, selecting Bumrah as captain would provide consistency throughout the series and suggested Rohit should only join as a player if he misses the start.
Aaron Finch: Family Comes First
However, Aaron Finch voiced a different opinion on the matter. Speaking on ESPNcricinfo’s Around the Wicket, he disagreed with Gavaskar’s position and supported Rohit’s choice to be with his family. “I disagree with Sunny on that totally,” Finch stated. “Rohit Sharma is the captain of the Indian cricket team. If you need to stay at home because your wife’s going to have a baby… that’s such a beautiful moment… and you take all the time that you need in that regard.”
Finch’s perspective underscores the significance of personal milestones over professional responsibilities, arguing that Rohit’s absence from the first Test should not strip him of his leadership role.
First Test details and India’s upcoming schedule
The first Test in the Border-Gavaskar series will see India face Australia at the Optus Stadium in Perth on 22 November. Rohit is expected to miss this match for personal reasons, but team officials have yet to confirm any absence beyond the series opener.
The Pat Cummins-led Australian team will aim to exploit any potential changes in the Indian line-up.
Rohit Sharma take on missing India vs Australia opener
Rohit Sharma, speaking at a recent press conference following India’s 0-3 loss against New Zealand, addressed the speculation around his availability for the opener. When asked about his status for the Perth Test, he responded, “I am not too sure about Perth. But fingers crossed,” hinting that his participation may depend on his family situation.
Balanced Approach Needed?
With differing opinions on the matter, Finch’s stance has drawn attention to the need for balance between professional commitments and personal life. The final call will likely come from selectors, but for now, Finch’s view adds a compassionate dimension to the captaincy debate, suggesting that India’s leadership on the field should not overshadow the importance of personal life events.
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