Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has voiced his displeasure over the surprising decision to drop Rohit Sharma from the playing XI in the fifth and final Test of the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Jasprit Bumrah took charge as stand-in captain, confirming rumours that Rohit had been left out due to his poor form. He cited that Rohit was “rested,” but we know that Rohit’s failure as a batter made his way out of the XI in Sydney.
Mohammad Kaif criticizes India on dropping Rohit
In a passionate video posted on his X account, Kaif criticised the decision, emphasising that Rohit is a leader who has brought immense success to the team, including a World Cup trophy and ending India’s 11-year drought in June 2024. He questioned whether the decision was made by coach Gautam Gambhir or the selectors and highlighted the importance of standing by your captain in tough times.
“Rohit Sharma is no ordinary captain whom you can simply rest or drop. Whoever made this decision, whether it was Gautam Gambhir or the selectors, you cannot drop your captain in such a crucial Test match,” Kaif said. Kaif also pointed out that Rohit’s leadership has been pivotal in building the team, mentoring young players, and instilling a winning culture. “You cannot drop a captain like him,” he reiterated.
“Even Virat Kohli…”
The former batter further argued that Rohit was not the only senior player struggling with the bat. He pointed to Virat Kohli’s subpar performances and stressed that batting conditions had been difficult throughout the series. “Runs were not coming for Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, or Usman Khawaja. This was a seaming track tour, where batting has been tough,” Kaif said.
Kaif expressed his disappointment over the team management’s handling of the situation, suggesting that Rohit should have been given the chance to open the innings alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal. “Personally, I wanted Rohit Sharma to play, win this Test match, level the series 2-2, and bring the Border-Gavaskar Trophy home for India. That was the wish of both me and his fans,” he added.
Rohit Sharma’s horrible form since IND vs BAN Tests
| Mat | Inns | Runs | HS | Ave | 100 | 50 |
| 8 | 15 | 164 | 52 | 10.93 | 0 | 1 |
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