Sat Jan 04 07:18:11 UTC 2025: ## Rohit Sharma Denies Retirement Amidst Sydney Test Absence

**Sydney, Australia – January 4, 2025** – Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma has emphatically denied rumours of his retirement from Test cricket, attributing his absence from the ongoing Sydney Test against Australia to poor form. Sharma, who stepped down from the captaincy for the match, handing the reins to Jasprit Bumrah, clarified that his decision was solely based on his recent struggles at the crease.

“I have not retired. I stood down,” Sharma stated in an interview with Star Sports. He explained that his decision followed discussions with the coach and selectors, acknowledging his lack of runs and the team’s need for in-form players. The 37-year-old stressed, “I am not going anywhere.”

Sharma’s recent performance has been underwhelming, accumulating only 31 runs in five innings across three Tests in the current series. His overall 2024 Test record is equally modest: 619 runs in 26 innings across 14 matches, averaging 24.76. His decision to step aside sparked speculation about a potential end to his Test career, but he dismissed these rumours.

“This is not a retirement decision,” he affirmed, adding that while his current form is poor, it doesn’t guarantee future struggles. He expressed confidence in a turnaround, highlighting the unpredictable nature of cricket and emphasizing his own decision-making capacity.

The team management and selectors reportedly supported Sharma’s decision, recognizing his extensive experience and understanding of his own capabilities. In his absence, Shubman Gill joined the Indian eleven for the crucial fifth match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, with India currently trailing the series 1-2. Sharma praised Bumrah’s leadership skills, expressing confidence in his ability to captain the team.

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