Team India will travel to Australia for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Rohit will be part of the first batch of players heading to Australia but his availability for the opening Test is uncertain.
Rohit confirmed that he might miss the first Test in Perth due to personal reasons. He was last seen playing during the three-match Test series against New Zealand at home, where India suffered a heavy 0-3 loss.
Reports earlier indicated that the 37-year-old batter could miss the first Test because his wife, Ritika Sajdeh, is expecting their second child.
“I am not sure of my availability for the first Test in Perth, fingers crossed,” Rohit said after the final Test against New Zealand.
Abhimanyu Easwaran has been added to the squad as a backup opener in case Rohit misses the first Test. KL Rahul might also open with Yashasvi Jaiswal, while Dhruv Jurel could be used in the middle order after his strong performances for the A team at the MCG.
Rohit will travel with the team to Australia on November 10, but his participation in the first Test is still uncertain. His availability will depend on personal matters, and a final decision will be made closer to the match.
A source told India Today, “He is traveling but his participation in the 1st Test is yet not confirmed. Will see what happens next anything in regards to this. His availability is subject to his matter,”
Rohit plans to get used to Australian conditions before the first Test, and could return to India to be with Ritika for the birth of their child. He may rejoin the team after his paternity leave. These are just speculations and further details will be confirmed once the team reaches Australia.
India has opted for a simulation practice session instead of a three-day match against India A. The second four-day game against Australia A will end on November 10. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is vital for both India and Australia.
