BGT 2024-25: Who will captain India in Perth if Rohit Sharma misses out the first test?

Rohit Sharma is a major doubt for the Perth test in the BGT 2024-25.

With uncertainty surrounding Indian captain Rohit Sharma’s availability for the first test against Australia due to personal reasons, India might have to consider significant changes to their lineup.

Despite his recent struggles with the bat – he scored only 91 runs in three tests against New Zealand – Rohit’s potential absence will create a big void in the Indian lineup. Rohit is one of the most experienced players in the current set-up and has been an excellent leader until the recent home whitewash.

Speaking during the press conference after India’s 25-run loss against New Zealand in the Mumbai test, Rohit acknowledged the uncertainty regarding his participation in the first test against Australia in Perth. The Indian captain had said, “Not sure whether I will be going [to Perth], fingers crossed.“

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 will be played in Australia, beginning with the first test from November 22-26 at Perth Stadium.

Who will captain India in Perth if Rohit Sharma misses the first test vs Australia?

Addressing the media before India’s departure to Australia on Monday, head coach Gautam Gambhir confirmed that India’s vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah will take over the captaincy duties if Rohit is unavailable. Gambhir said, “Bumrah is vice-captain; if Rohit is not available, he is going to lead in Perth.”

Bumrah has previously led India once in test cricket – against England at Edgbaston in 2022 – but India lost that game.

After the first test in Perth, the second test, a day-night encounter, is scheduled to begin on December 6 at the Adelaide Oval.

The action will then move to The Gabba in Brisbane where India created history on their last tour, for the third test from December 14, followed by the Boxing Day test at Melbourne Cricket Ground from December 26. The series will conclude with the fifth test from January 3 at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

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