Rohit Sharma Reunites with India Squad in Australia Amid Emotional Circumstances

MUMBAI, NOV 21 (NewsWire): Indian cricket team skipper Rohit Sharma is set to rejoin his teammates in Perth on November 24, after a brief delay due to personal reasons. The decision to depart for Australia was made by the star batsman and his wife Ritika Sajdeh, who welcomed their second child – a baby boy – on November 15.

The Indian squad departed for Australia in three batches between November 9 and 11. However, Rohit decided to stay back home with his family instead of joining his team. His delayed arrival means he will miss the first Test at Perth's Optus Stadium but will be available for the second Test at Adelaide Oval scheduled from December 6-10.

In the absence of Rohit, Jasprit Bumrah has been designated as the stand-in captain and will lead the Indian team in the Perth Test. With Pat Cummins leading Australia in this edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, the match is set to witness a unique scenario where two bowlers – Jasprit Bumrah from India and Pat Cummins from Australia – will be taking charge.

As Rohit prepares for the Adelaide Test, he will participate in a two-day day-night practice match between the India A team and the Prime Minister XI in Canberra. Scheduled for November 30 and December 1 at Manuka Oval, this fixture will offer Rohit the opportunity to get accustomed to Australian conditions and regain his match fitness.

Initially, Rohit's delayed travel sparked intense speculation among cricket fans and experts alike. Given that the Indian team has struggled with injuries and absences in recent times – including Shubman Gill's thumb injury and Jasprit Bumrah's role as stand-in captain – there were widespread concerns regarding when the skipper would rejoin his teammates.

However, Rohit's reunion is on the cards, marking a significant boost to India's chances of winning the series.