Rohit Sharma Set To Reunite With Australian Series Amidst Speculation Over Delayed Arrival in Perth.

Mumbai, November 21 - India's batting mainstay Rohit Sharma is all set to join his team in Australia on November 24 as they prepare for the ongoing first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series. The Indian skipper had delayed his departure due to personal reasons and was spotted celebrating the birth of his second child with wife Ritika Sajdeh.

While the squad departed for Australia in batches from November 9 to 11, Rohit opted to stay back home in India as he missed the celebration of his son's arrival. The delayed entry puts him on the sidelines for the first Test at Perth's Optus Stadium which commences on Friday.

Jasprit Bumrah is set to take charge as the temporary captain from Australia after Pat Cummins, Australia's team leader, captains his side in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The absence of this duo would lead to changes and it will be an interesting contest for batting, fielding, and bowling.

A 2-day day-night practice match between India A and the Prime Minister XI has been scheduled on November 30 and December 1 at Canberra's Manuka Oval. As part of his preparation for the second Adelaide Test (December 6-10), the fixture will provide Rohit with an opportunity to regain fitness and acclimatise himself in Australian conditions.

The speculation around Rohit's delayed entry had raised many questions about the Indian team's chances and their performance ahead. Although the squad is facing injuries but due to stand-in captain, Jasprit Bumrah, some concerns are still remaining there while Rohit’s return could be a turning point for Team India, especially considering how much he will need rest at this time.