Tue Dec 31 08:15:39 UTC 2024: ## Rohit Sharma’s Possible Test Retirement After Sydney?
**Melbourne, Australia, December 31, 2024** – Following India’s crushing 184-run defeat to Australia in the Melbourne Test, speculation is mounting regarding the future of captain Rohit Sharma in Test cricket. The loss, which sealed a 2-1 series defeat for India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, has intensified calls for Sharma’s retirement from the longer format.
Sharma’s recent form has been dismal, scoring only 31 runs in his last five innings. Since the start of the Bangladesh series in September, his average has plummeted to a mere 10.93 runs per innings. His captaincy record is equally concerning; India has not won a Test match under his leadership in the last six matches, suffering embarrassing defeats in Adelaide and Melbourne, and a tense draw in the Gabba Test. Only a 295-run victory in Perth, with Jasprit Bumrah leading in Sharma’s absence due to the birth of his second child, provides a glimmer of recent success.
Reports in the Times of India suggest Sharma has privately decided to retire from Test cricket after the upcoming Sydney Test. While he hasn’t publicly confirmed this, his comments after the Melbourne Test hinted at a shift in focus. He acknowledged the need to prioritize certain aspects of his life, adding that India was determined to fight back in Sydney.
The BCCI and selectors are reportedly discussing Sharma’s potential retirement. However, there is a possibility that Sharma might reconsider if India manages to reach the World Test Championship (WTC) final in 2025. Currently, India’s qualification for the WTC final is precarious, requiring a win in Sydney and favorable results elsewhere. Their chances are now dependent on other teams’ performances, highlighting the pressure surrounding the Sydney Test and Sharma’s uncertain future.
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