The entire match day minus one of the fifth and final Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test belonged to Rohit Sharma. The hype surrounding his potential retirement began when strong reports claimed that he made up his decision to step down just before the Sydney Test in order to leave the Indian team for good. Jasprit Bumrah has been made the captain, with Shubman Gill walking back into the side at number three. As for Gill, there are other things to worry about as well. Meanwhile, we had an update on the ICC Champions Trophy. On that note, let us look at the top stories from January 2, Thursday.
Rohit Sharma to retire from Test cricket?
Making all the reports true, Rohit Sharma has dropped himself from India’s playing XI for the Sydney Test, citing poor form in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Shubman Gill has replace him, batting at No. 3. Meanwhile, speculation surrounds Rohit’s potential retirement from Test cricket. However, there’s no official confirmation on his retirement. Jasprit Bumrah will lead the team in Rohit’s absence, as India fights to keep their World Test Championship Final hopes alive.
Shubman Gill involved in a scam?
Gujarat Titans (GT) players, including captain Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan, Mohit Sharma, and Rahul Tewatia, have been summoned by the Gujarat CID for investing in BZ Financial Services, a company accused of a Rs 450 crore chit-fund fraud. Gill had invested Rs 1.95 crore, while the others invested between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 1 crore. The Gujarat CID initially reported that the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Bhupendrasinh Zala BZ Financial Services had committed a Rs 6000 crore chit-fund fraud, but since the sum has been decreased to Rs 450 crore.
ICC Champions Trophy in trouble?
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is racing against time to complete renovations at the National Stadium Karachi ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, starting February 19. The PCB has relocated scheduled matches, including the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy final and a Test series against the West Indies, to expedite the Rs 12 billion renovation project. The upgrades include new dressing rooms, media centers, and spectator facilities, but the deadline is tight, putting the event in jeopardy.
Rohit-Kohli to dazzle ICC Champions Trophy?
Former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson believes that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s current form struggles in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy won’t affect their performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Watson thinks the ODI format suits both players, citing Kohli’s impressive ODI record. Watson expects Kohli to excel in the Champions Trophy, given his mastery and consistency in the format. Watson’s comments included, ““I don’t think it’ll really play a part with Virat and Rohit’s impact in ODI cricket. One-day cricket really frees them both. “
Gautam Gambhir vs reports
Gautam Gambhir, India’s coach, has dismissed rumors of a rift between players and himself, as well as speculation about team dynamics and Rohit Sharma’s retirement. Gambhir stated that conversations in the dressing room should remain private and that reports of tension are untrue. However, he avoided commenting on whether Rohit Sharma, who has struggled in the series, would be included in the playing XI for the SCG Test.
Ravi Ashwin deserved grand farewell…
Anil Kumble expressed disappointment over how India handled Ravichandran Ashwin’s retirement, speaking that the off-spinner deserved a grand farewell. Ashwin announced his retirement after the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, but Kumble criticized the team management for not fully utilizing Ashwin’s talents, particularly in conditions like England, South Africa, and Australia. Despite being a match-winner in all conditions, Ashwin was often typecast as a subcontinental specialist. Kumble lamented that such a valuable player was given no proper recognition for his unmatchable contributions to Indian cricket, deserving a fitting send-off after serving the team with distinction.
