Indian skipper Rohit Sharma was spotted at Mumbai International Airport on November 23 as he embarked on his journey to join the Indian squad in Australia for the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Sharma, who had stayed back in India to welcome the birth of his second child, departed amid cheers from fans wishing him success for the high-stakes series.
Accompanied by his wife, Ritika Sajdeh, who came to bid him farewell, Sharma paused at the departure gate to take selfies with fans and sign autographs, displaying his characteristic warmth. His arrival in Perth is expected on November 24, coinciding with the third day of the first Test at Optus Stadium. The veteran opener will resume his leadership duties from the second Test, scheduled at the Adelaide Oval from December 6-10.
Before taking on the Australians in Adelaide, Sharma will participate in a crucial warm-up game, a day-night fixture between India A and the Prime Minister’s XI at Manuka Oval in Canberra from November 30 to December 1. This practice match will be vital for Sharma to acclimatize to Australian conditions and prepare for the intense Test series.
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The Indian squad’s travel to Australia began in early November, with players arriving in contingents. Rohit Sharma’s schedule was adjusted to accommodate the birth of his baby boy on November 15, a situation managed seamlessly by the BCCI. During a pre-series press conference, stand-in captain Jasprit Bumrah acknowledged his conversations with Sharma, ensuring smooth coordination in his absence.
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“I spoke with Rohit earlier, and we maintained clear communication about the leadership transition. He’s been very supportive,” Jasprit Bumrah remarked.
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Under Jasprit Bumrah’s captaincy, India has started the series on a high note. At the end of Day 2 of the Perth Test, India held a commanding 218-run lead, courtesy of an exceptional 172-run opening stand between KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal. The team looks poised to carry this momentum forward, with Sharma’s imminent return adding further strength to the Indian camp.
Sharma’s leadership and expertise are crucial for India to maintain their supremacy in this significant series, safeguarding their ambitions for the World Test Championship final.
