Former BCCI selector Jatin Paranjpe has opened up about a pivotal moment during India’s Test series in Australia, suggesting that Rohit Sharma’s decision to opt out of the final Test at Sydney may have cost India a chance to level the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Rohit’s Absence from Sydney Test Raised Eyebrows
Paranjpe believes that Rohit’s withdrawal from the fifth and final Test was a major turning point. Having had a disappointing run with the bat — just 31 runs across three matches — Rohit stepped aside from the Sydney clash, leaving Jasprit Bumrah to captain the side.
“I was a little disappointed that he chose to drop himself in Sydney. We could’ve levelled the series,” Paranjpe shared on the A Century of Stories podcast with Cyrus Broacha. India eventually lost the Test and the series 3-1.
Rohit’s Test Retirement and Past Performances
Earlier this year, Rohit announced his retirement from Test cricket just days before the squad for the England tour was due. Virat Kohli followed suit five days later, marking the end of an era in Indian red-ball cricket.
Rohit played 67 Tests for India, averaging 40.57. His Test career took a positive turn in 2019 when he began opening the innings. From 2020 to 2024, he was one of India’s most consistent performers in the format. But starting in late 2024, his form began to fade, leading to increased scrutiny.
“He Lives for Test Cricket”: A Selector’s Personal Insight
Paranjpe recalled a candid moment with Rohit during his time as a selector. “I remember he wasn’t playing Tests at the time, and I asked him about it. He said, ‘I started with red-ball cricket, Jatin. How can anyone think I don’t care about it?’ That told me everything. He really lived for Test cricket.”
Despite his passion, Paranjpe believes Rohit himself would admit that his Test career had more potential left unfulfilled.
Ravi Shastri’s Role in Rohit’s Test Revival
The former selector also credited ex-head coach Ravi Shastri for revitalizing Rohit’s Test career. It was under Shastri’s guidance that Rohit was promoted to open the innings — a move that paid off handsomely.
“That was Ravi Shastri’s idea. He’s a superb thinker, always 3-4 steps ahead of everyone when it comes to reading the game,” Paranjpe said.
What’s Next for Rohit Sharma?
Though his Test career is over, Rohit Sharma continues to play a key role in India’s white-ball setup. He’s expected to return to action later this year when India tours Australia for an ODI series.
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