Australia great asserts Rohit Sharma is 'dropped' for series-deciding match

This development has sparked new doubts about Rohit's Test cricket career, particularly as his recent performance issues have aligned with India's struggles in the series. The decision for Rohit to step down was made after careful consideration, but former Australian cricketer Mark Taylor expressed skepticism about Rohit's complete authority in making this choice.

Taylor believes Rohit was “dropped” and expressed his surprise at the word not being used to denote his absence from the playing XI.

“To be honest, that is sidestepping the point. The bottomline is, the captain of a country doesn't opt out for the final Test, the deciding Test match of the series. It's no doubt he has been dropped, I don't know why they just don't say he has been dropped,” Taylor told Triple M Cricket.

“It doesn't mean he has been dropped forever. It just means he is missing this Test match because he is out of form, that's not a problem. That's unfortunately professional sports, and Shubman Gill comes back in.”

Bumrah on Rohit

Jasprit Bumrah, who has previously captained the side in Rohit’s absence during a paternity leave, took over the leadership duties for the match.

At the toss, Bumrah explained the situation, stating, “Our captain has shown leadership, he has opted to rest.” He further emphasized the cohesion within the Indian team, adding, “It shows the unity we have in the team.”

With the series hanging in the balance, Bumrah faces the pressure of steering India towards a series-equalling win and help the side retain the trophy. While Rohit's absence adds to the pressure, it also provides an opportunity for the team to recalibrate and focus on securing a win in the final Test.

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