India’s captain Rohit Sharma is now expected to participate in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy opener in Perth, according to recent reports. With the series taking on added importance after India’s 0-3 whitewash by New Zealand, Sharma’s presence is considered crucial for India’s campaign. Although there were initial uncertainties about Rohit’s availability—due to the anticipated birth of his second child—recent information from Sports Tak indicates that he will be part of India’s first batch traveling to Australia on November 10.
India’s team is set to depart in two groups for logistical reasons, with the first leaving on November 10 and the second following on November 11. The BCCI was reportedly unable to secure a single flight for the entire squad. While Rohit’s participation in the Perth Test seemed doubtful earlier, his inclusion in the initial travel group suggests he could indeed feature in the series opener.
This Border-Gavaskar series holds significant weight for India in their bid to secure a place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. Following the defeat by New Zealand, India’s qualification path has become more challenging. Currently, second in the WTC standings, India must win a minimum of four out of five Tests in Australia to advance without relying on other results. A 3-0 series win would ensure qualification, though the outcome of New Zealand’s series against England could influence India’s standing.
If India manages a 3-0, 3-1, or 4-1 series result against Australia, their spot in the WTC final would likely be secure, assuming England forces at least one draw against New Zealand. In other scenarios, such as a 3-2 victory, India would depend on both England and Sri Lanka’s performances against New Zealand and Australia, respectively, to qualify for the final.
As India heads to Australia with high stakes, Sharma’s availability in Perth would be a significant boost to their lineup, strengthening their pursuit of a WTC final berth.
