Thu Jan 23 15:59:50 UTC 2025: ## Rohit Sharma’s Slump Deepens: Disappointing Ranji Trophy Debut and Career Low
**Mumbai, India** – India’s Test captain, Rohit Sharma, endured another batting failure in his long-awaited return to the Ranji Trophy on Thursday. Dismissed for a paltry three runs against Jammu and Kashmir at the MCA Cricket Ground, Sharma’s struggles continued to draw criticism. His poor performance reportedly led to several disgruntled fans leaving the stadium.
The underwhelming innings marks a new low for Sharma, whose batting average in the 2024/25 first-class season has plummeted to 10.43 after 16 innings. This is his lowest average since 2006 while batting in the top six for at least 15 innings. The performance follows a string of disappointing performances in recent Test matches.
Sharma’s recent form has been a cause for concern. During India’s tour of Australia, he managed only 31 runs in five innings across three Tests. His 2024-25 Test season was equally dismal, yielding a mere 164 runs in eight matches and 15 innings at an average of 10.93, with a highest score of 52.
Sharma’s captaincy has also faced challenges. Prior to the Australian series, India suffered a humiliating 0-3 home Test series defeat against New Zealand—their first home whitewash since 2000. He rejoined the team for the Australia series after the birth of his second child, following India’s first Test victory at Perth under Jasprit Bumrah’s leadership.
Adding to Mumbai’s woes, opening partner Yashasvi Jaiswal also fell cheaply, scoring only four runs. The early dismissals left Mumbai struggling on the opening day of their Ranji Trophy match. Sharma’s inclusion in the Ranji Trophy was announced by the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) on January 20th.
First Piper 