Indian Test captain Rohit Sharma has informed coach Gautam Gambhir and chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar of his decision to opt-out of the fifth and final Test against Australia. In his place, paceman Jasprit Bumrah is likely to lead the team in the all-important match at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). This could also mean that the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne might have been Rohit's last for India, as he may not be a part of the next World Test Championship cycle. Youngster Shubman Gill will replace him in the playing 11, as India aims to level the series and retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Indian Test Captain Rohit Sharma Opts Out of Fifth Test Against Australia
Indian Test captain Rohit Sharma has made the surprising decision to opt out of the fifth and final Test against Australia in Sydney. This move has raised eyebrows, especially considering India's need to win the match to level the series and retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Background:
Rohit Sharma has been India's Test captain since 2020, taking over from Virat Kohli. Under his leadership, India has achieved some notable victories, including the recent Test series win in Bangladesh. However, the team has also faced some setbacks, including a 4-0 defeat against Australia in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Reasons for Opting Out:
The exact reasons for Rohit Sharma's decision to opt out of the fifth Test are not entirely clear. However, there have been suggestions that he may be struggling with a hamstring injury that he sustained during the second Test in Delhi. Additionally, there has been speculation that Rohit may be discontent with the team's performance and the overall direction of Indian cricket.
Replacement:
In place of Rohit Sharma, paceman Jasprit Bumrah is likely to lead the team in the Sydney Test. Bumrah is a world-class fast bowler and a respected figure within the Indian dressing room. He has captained India in white-ball cricket in the past, but this will be his first time leading the team in a Test match.
Impact on the Series:
Rohit Sharma's absence will undoubtedly be a blow to India's chances of winning the series. He is one of the team's most experienced batsman and a proven match-winner. However, the team has shown resilience in the past and will be hoping to step up in his absence.
Top 5 FAQs:
Why did Rohit Sharma opt out of the fifth Test?
Who will replace Rohit Sharma as captain?
What are India's chances of winning the series without Rohit Sharma?
What does Rohit Sharma's decision mean for his future as India's Test captain?
What are the long-term implications of Rohit Sharma's decision?
The Daily Mail Sport team provides live coverage of Arsenal's Premier League match against Wolves at the Emirates Stadium. Despite Arsenal extending their lead at the top of the league, they struggle to break through the defense of one of the worst teams in Premier League history, ultimately securing a hard-fought victory.
During Lionel Messi's recent visit to Kolkata as part of his GOAT India Tour, chaos broke out at Salt Lake Stadium as disappointed and agitated fans began destroying property when they were unable to properly see the Argentinian soccer legend. The event organiser has been arrested and an inquiry committee set up by the Chief Minister to investigate the incident. Despite the chaos, Messi's next stop in Hyderabad is expected to go as planned.
Lionel Messi's highly anticipated India tour has reached its second day as the Argentinian star forward heads to Mumbai. Fans can expect an action-packed day as Messi is set to take part in the Padel Cup and a football match with celebrities. A charity event and an appearance at the Wankhede Stadium are also on the schedule. The tour had a rocky start in Kolkata, with chaos ensuing when fans couldn't catch a glimpse of Messi, but ended on a positive note in Hyderabad with a football match with fans and the state's CM.
Despite a late equaliser from Wolves, Arsenal managed to secure a 2-1 win thanks to a second own goal in the 94th minute. However, manager Mikel Arteta was critical of his team's performance, branding certain aspects as "unacceptable" and "horrible". The win extends Arsenal's lead at the top of the Premier League to five points, but their defensive mistakes against the league's bottom club raise concerns for the manager.
In a nail-biting match, Arsenal's Bukayo Saka played a pivotal role in securing a 2-1 win against Wolves. After previously conceding late goals in other matches, Saka was relieved to be on the other end this time, scoring an own goal and contributing to the winner. Despite the tense ending, the team showed resilience and determination, a trait that Saka praised before looking ahead to their next match against Everton.
In a press conference, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta defended his summer signing Viktor Gyokeres against critics after a lackluster performance in a 2-1 win against Wolves. Despite an opportunity to score against the Premier League's bottom side, Gyokeres could not convert any of his five touches. Arteta and others point to the need for better service, but this is not the first time the striker has failed to make an impact for Arsenal.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has dismissed rumors of selling Gabriel Jesus and has declared him as the team's first-choice striker. With the Brazilian international nearing the end of his contract and competition from other strikers, Arteta's statement comes as a relief for fans. Meanwhile, Arteta has also commented on the role of club captain Martin Odegaard, who faces tough competition from Eberechi Eze for a spot in the team.
Arsenal's rising star Gabriel Martinelli continues to make history as the first player in the club's history to score in five consecutive Champions League matches. In a stunning display, Martinelli scored the third goal for Arsenal against Club Brugge, securing their victory. This impressive performance solidifies Martinelli's position as one of Arsenal's most promising players and has fans eagerly anticipating his future success.
Mikel Arteta expressed his gratitude for Arsenal's late surge in a crucial victory over Wolves. Despite a rocky start, the Gunners managed to find a way to win, with some impressive performances from star players. Arteta also gave credit to Wolves for putting up a tough fight, making the win all the more satisfying for Arsenal fans. The coach also shared his admiration for Gyokeres, whose contribution made Arsenal a stronger team on the field.
As Arsenal prepares to face Wolves at the Emirates Stadium, manager Mikel Arteta must navigate suspensions, fitness doubts, and careful minutes planning. With the visit of Wolves providing an opportunity to consolidate their position in the Premier League, the predicted lineup reveals how Arteta sees this important phase of the season. William Saliba's potential absence highlights Arsenal's reliance on versatile defenders and the potential deployment of a technical, possession-oriented trio in midfield against a defensively sound Wolves side.