Although Rohit Sharma chose not to play in the fifth Test match between Australia and India at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), the 38-year-old is still making an effort to help by offering his insightful advice to Jasprit Bumrah, the interim skipper. During the opening session on Day 2, the Mumbai hitter demonstrated his ability to work well with others by bringing refreshments to the pitch.
In the current Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024–25, Bumrah is leading India for the second time and for the third time in Test cricket. Having captained India in multiple games in all three formats, Rohit is an experienced player. In an attempt to help Bumrah, the Nagpur native expressed his opinions during the drinks break.
Rishabh Pant, who many believe will be India’s next full-time vice-captain, was also present for the conversation and was seen paying close attention to Rohit Sharma remarks.
When Bumrah noted before the toss, “Our captain has shown leadership by opting to rest in this game,” Rohit’s participation is really encouraging. That indicates that this team is very cohesive. No selfishness is present. We want to take whatever action is best for the team.
Day 2: India mounts a fierce comeback; Australia loses four points in the opening session.
India got off to a great start on Day 2 after dismissing four Australian batsmen in the opening session. On Saturday, January 4, Marnus Labuschagne was the first batter out of the game as Bumrah defeated him in the fourth over. On Day 2, Mohammed Siraj made an appearance by taking Travis Head and Sam Konstas out of his fifth over.
By scoring 57 runs for the fifth wicket, Steve Smith and Beau Webster brought the Australian innings back to life. Before the lunch break, though, Prasidh Krishna got rid of the former Australian captain for 33 in the penultimate over. After finishing the morning session at 101/5, Australia is still 84 runs behind India’s first innings total.