Thu Jan 02 20:18:14 UTC 2025: ## Rohit Sharma Benched for Final Australia Test Amidst Poor Form and WTC Stakes

**Sydney, Australia –** Indian captain Rohit Sharma will not feature in the final Test against Australia, sparking controversy and speculation regarding the circumstances of his absence. While initial reports suggested Sharma voluntarily opted out after a dismal series performance, a subsequent report from PTI news agency indicates that coach Gautam Gambhir made the decision, prioritizing a win to secure the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and maintain India’s World Test Championship final hopes.

Sharma, who scored only 31 runs in the series, recorded the worst average (6.20) by a touring captain in Australia. His replacement will be Shubman Gill, with KL Rahul opening the innings.

Gambhir, addressing the media in a somewhat evasive press conference in place of Sharma, neither confirmed nor denied the captain’s omission, stating that the final playing XI would be announced the following day after assessing pitch conditions. His refusal to directly address the issue fueled speculation. The absence of Sharma from fielding drills further solidified the rumors.

Reports suggest a high-ranking BCCI official urged Gambhir to allow Sharma to play the final match, potentially marking his Test farewell. However, Gambhir reportedly rejected the request, emphasizing the importance of securing a victory in Sydney to keep India’s WTC ambitions alive. The situation remains tense, with the cricketing world awaiting further clarification.

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