Rohit Sharma missed the opening Test of the ongoing five-match series between India and Australia in Perth, citing the birth of his second child. In his absence, Jasprit Bumrah stepped up to lead the Indian side and guided the team to a commanding 295-run victory in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy opener. Following this emphatic win—India’s largest by runs in Australia—many fans have voiced their desire for Bumrah to continue as captain, even with Rohit’s return for the second Test.

The upcoming second Test, scheduled from December 6 to 10 at the Adelaide Oval, will be a day-night affair played with the pink ball, adding an extra layer of intrigue. Amid rising debates about leadership, former Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik weighed in during an episode of Cricbuzz’s HeyCBwithDK.

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Addressing a fan query, Dinesg Karthik acknowledged Bumrah’s impressive leadership in Perth but firmly stated that Rohit, as the designated captain, should reclaim the reins. “Bumrah did a fabulous job, but Rohit is the designated captain, and he is back, and he should lead this Test team. Simple as that,” said Karthik.

Rohit Sharma, however, comes under the microscope not just for his leadership but also for his recent struggles with the bat. India’s disastrous 0-3 Test series loss to New Zealand at home in October-November saw Rohit receive heavy criticism. His batting woes were evident as the opener managed only 91 runs in six innings during that series.

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In his absence in Perth, KL Rahul filled the opening slot and impressed with scores of 26 and 77 in challenging conditions. While Bumrah’s captaincy has sparked a debate, Rohit’s return places him at a crossroads, where he must prove his mettle as both a leader and a batter in the high-pressure Adelaide Test.