Indian Test captain Rohit Sharma is expected to miss the opening match of the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25, which kicks off at the Optus Stadium in Perth on November 22. Although official confirmation is pending, it seems likely that Rohit will be unavailable for one or possibly two of the first games in the five-match series due to personal reasons.

Rohit’s recent form in Test cricket has raised concerns. He managed only 91 runs across six innings during India’s previous Test series which they lost to New Zealand by 3-0 , averaging a mere 15.16, with his lone half-century coming in the second innings of the first Test at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar expressed worry over the potential absence of Rohit Sharma at the start of the series, especially after India’s recent struggles in Test cricket. Gavaskar believes that losing the series with Rohit missing the first few games could put immense pressure on the team and management.

"“It is important for the captain to play the first Test match. It’s different if he is injured, but if he is not available, then the deputy leader will be under a lot of pressure," Gavaskar told Sports Tak.

In Rohit’s absence, fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah is likely to take over the leadership role. Gavaskar further added that if Rohit misses the initial Tests, Bumrah should lead the team for the entire tour to ensure consistency and reduce pressure.

“I have been reading that Rohit Sharma might not play the first two Tests of the Australia series. I feel that, in that case, the selection committee should appoint Jasprit Bumrah the captain of the side for the entire Australia tour, and tell Rohit Sharma that you will participate as a player in this series. For the first Test match, Rohit Sharma has to be there," he added.