Rohit Sharma likely to skip England tests; Kohli retains Spot

In a major blow to Team India, captain Rohit Sharma is reportedly set to opt out of the upcoming Test series against England, scheduled to begin on June 20. According to sources, the decision comes in the wake of Rohit's prolonged struggle for form in Test cricket.

Rohit’s Test Struggles in Australia

Rohit’s performance in the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia was underwhelming. After missing the first Test in Perth, where Jasprit Bumrah led India, Rohit returned for the pink-ball Test in Adelaide but failed to make an impact. Across three matches, he managed only 31 runs at a dismal average of 6.20.

With a string of low scores, speculation had been rife about Rohit’s potential retirement from Test cricket. However, the veteran batter dismissed these rumours, clarifying that stepping away was a personal decision based on form, not an indication of retirement.

“This is not a decision of retirement. I am not moving away from this game. But I took a decision to step away from this game because I was not able to score runs with the bat. There is no guarantee that I will score runs in two months or five months from now,” Rohit stated.

Also Read: BCCI takes big decision on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli ahead of England tests

Kohli Set to Retain His Spot

Meanwhile, star batter Virat Kohli is expected to retain his place in the squad despite a mixed outing in the Australia series. Kohli managed to score a century in Perth but failed to capitalize on starts in the remaining matches, finishing the series with 190 runs from five Tests.

India’s Tour of England

India’s five-match Test series against England begins on June 20 at Headingley, Leeds. The other matches will be played at Edgbaston, Lord’s, Old Trafford, and The Oval.

Both Rohit and Kohli are currently participating in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, representing Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, respectively. Their performances in the tournament could influence final selections for the England tour.