Ajit Agarkar Set to Discuss Rohit Sharma’s Test Future: Retirement on the Cards?

India is currently locked in an intense battle with Australia in the fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Rohit Sharma returned to his preferred opening position alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal after previously batting in the middle order at No. 6 during the second and third Tests of the series. However, his struggles with the bat continued as he managed to score only 3 runs off 5 deliveries, further fueling speculations about his future in Test cricket.

The Indian skipper has been enduring a torrid run of form in Test cricket, managing just 19 runs in the ongoing series. Over the last 8 Tests, Rohit has scored a mere 155 runs at an average of 11.07, raising questions about his place in the red-ball format. According to a report by news agency PTI, chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar, who is currently in Melbourne, may engage in a crucial discussion with Rohit Sharma about his future in Test cricket.

The report suggests that if India fails to qualify for the ICC World Test Championship 2025 final, the fifth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at Sydney might be Rohit Sharma’s final appearance in red-ball cricket. This consensus is gaining traction, especially as his poor form continues to affect India’s performance in the ongoing series.

The PTI report highlights that Rohit Sharma expressed discomfort batting in the middle order during the second and third Tests. To restore him to his opening role, Shubman Gill was dropped from the playing XI, despite Gill being among India’s top scorers in the series. Rohit replaced KL Rahul at the top of the order in the fourth Test, but his stay was short-lived. He top-edged a short ball from Pat Cummins, gifting an easy catch to Scott Boland, and was dismissed for just 5 runs.

The Indian captain’s prolonged slump has led to significant backlash, with many calling for his retirement from the longest format. If Ajit Agarkar’s conversation with Rohit confirms this decision, it could mark the end of a significant chapter in Indian cricket.

Image Credits: NDTV Sports

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