Captain Rohit Sharma to join Team India on November 24
What's the story
As per Cricbuzz, Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma is set to join the squad in Australia on November 24. He will likely arrive during the third day's play at the first Test at the Opus Stadium in Perth. Notably, Sharma will miss the series opener due to the birth of his second child. Jasprit Bumrah will lead India in Sharma's absence. The latter's presence will be pivotal for the 2nd Test of the series in Adelaide from December 6.
Test preparations
Sharma's preparation for 2nd Test
Ahead of the second Test, Sharma will play a practice game with the India A team. The match against Prime Ministers XI is a Day/Night two-day match, which will be played at Manuka Oval, Canberra, from November 30. The Indian team had left for Australia in three batches from November 9-11, however, Sharma stayed back due to family commitments.
Leadership transition
Bumrah to lead in Sharma's absence
In Sharma's absence, Bumrah has assumed leadership responsibilities for the first Test. Bumrah, on the eve of Perth Test, confirmed that he has spoken to Sharma. He also hinted at Mohammed Shami's inclusion in the India squad, saying, "Shami bhai has started to play cricket, and obviously, he is an integral part of this team."
Player update
Shami's return to cricket and BGT considerations
Shami has been picked in the Bengal squad for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, a domestic T20 competition, which begins on November 23. However, before he is considered for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), he would require the National Cricket Academy (NCA) clearance. Bumrah revealed this during his pre-Test media conference, hinting at possible changes in the team composition.