The rain-marred third Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy may have ended in a draw, but it didn’t put a damper on the lively discussions during the post-match press conference. Rohit Sharma, India’s captain, found himself answering a barrage of questions with his trademark calm and composed demeanour. Among the topics raised, Ravichandran Ashwin’s recent retirement announcement naturally garnered significant attention.
However, the session took a humorous turn when a journalist asked whether Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, and Ashwin might be seen in varied roles in the future. The framing of the question led to a moment of light-hearted confusion, prompting a witty response from Rohit.
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“Arey bhai, khaali Ashwin ne announce kiya hai retirement [Oh brother, only Ashwin has announced his retirement],” quipped Rohit, breaking into laughter. “Tum log marwa doge mujhe, woh dono active hai aur kabhi bhi aa sakte hai perform karke [You people will get me killed someday (laughs); the other two are still active and can make their way back into the team with consistent performances].”
Rohit Sharma at the post-match conference of Gabba Test being at his witty self when asked about the future of Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara, after Ravichandran Ashwin announced retirement from international cricket. pic.twitter.com/KcOTBXO3Hm
— चिरकुट ज़िंदगी (@Chirayu_Jain26) December 18, 2024
Rohit’s quick humour underscored that while Ashwin is stepping away, Pujara and Rahane remain very much in contention for future selections. Interestingly, neither Pujara nor Rahane is part of the current Border-Gavaskar Trophy squad. Pujara has been contributing as part of the commentary team for this series, while Rahane has been showcasing his skills in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024.
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Both players have been pivotal in India’s past campaigns, particularly Down Under, and their absence from the ongoing series has sparked debates about their future in Indian cricket.
For now, Rohit’s light-hearted comment reminds everyone that while transitions in cricket are inevitable, the door remains open for those ready to prove their mettle once again.
