Jasprit Bumrah, not Rohit Sharma, walked out for the toss against Australia in the fifth Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). Bumrah won the toss under cloudy skies and on a grassy pitch, opting to bat first.

Major Changes in India’s Playing XI

India made two changes to their lineup. Shubman Gill replaced Rohit Sharma, while Prasidh Krishna stepped in for the injured Akash Deep. Jasprit Bumrah confidently stated, “We’re batting first. The grass doesn’t look too spicy, and we’ve learned to bounce back from defeats.”

Rohit Sharma’s Shocking Decline

Rohit Sharma’s struggles in Test cricket have been evident this year. With just 31 runs in five innings this series, his batting average of 6.2 is the lowest ever for a touring captain in Australia with a minimum of five innings.

Rohit’s dismal 2024 record includes:

• 14 Tests: 619 runs at an average of 24.76.
• Two Centuries: Both against England in Rajkot and Dharamsala.
• Last Half-Century: Against New Zealand in a series India lost 0-3 at home.

Leadership Transition Looming?

Sources suggest Rohit informed coach Gautam Gambhir and selectors about stepping aside, with the decision approved. Speculation is rife that the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne might have been Rohit’s last, as India looks ahead to the next World Test Championship cycle.

Jasprit Bumrah’s Moment to Shine

With the series at 2-1, this Test is a must-win for India to level the series and retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Bumrah’s leadership, already praised after India’s opening Test win, will be crucial.

Can Bumrah lead India to victory and secure the coveted trophy? Stay tuned for updates!

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