Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma has had a difficult year in red-ball cricket, struggling to regain his form with the bat. After a disappointing Test series in Australia, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has made it mandatory for all players to participate in domestic cricket, provided they are fit and not included in the national team. Following this directive, Rohit Sharma decided to make a comeback in the Ranji Trophy after a gap of 10 years. However, his comeback did not go as planned and now he has taken the important decision to shift his focus to white-ball cricket.
Rohit Sharma struggles in Ranji Trophy 2024-25
Rohit Sharma played for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy match against Jammu and Kashmir in a bid to regain his lost Test form. Unfortunately, he failed to make an impact, scoring only 3 runs in the first innings and 28 in the second innings. This poor performance has raised concerns about his red-ball cricket form, especially with crucial Test matches lined up.
Rohit’s big decision: To focus on white-ball cricket
After his disappointing performance in the Ranji Trophy, Rohit Sharma has decided to stay out of the next round of the tournament. Mumbai’s next match is against Meghalaya from January 30. According to reports, Rohit has informed the Mumbai team management about his decision to prioritise preparations for the upcoming ODI series against England and the Champions Trophy.
The move is an indication that Rohit is focusing on white-ball cricket, where he has been performing consistently well. With the ODI series against England and the Champions Trophy 2025 approaching, Rohit would want to regain his rhythm and lead the Indian team to success in these high-profile tournaments.
Yashasvi Jaiswal also ruled out of Ranji Trophy
Along with Rohit Sharma, young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal will also miss Mumbai’s next Ranji Trophy match. Jaiswal, who is in great form, is part of the Indian squad for the England series and the Champions Trophy. His absence along with Rohit’s will also be a big blow to Mumbai’s campaign in the Ranji Trophy.
Mumbai suffers shock defeat against Jammu and Kashmir
Despite the presence of star players like Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shreyas Iyer, Shivam Dube and Shardul Thakur, Mumbai suffered a shock defeat against Jammu and Kashmir by 5 wickets in the Ranji Trophy. Defending champions Mumbai were outplayed by a resolute Jammu and Kashmir side, which put up a valiant performance against a star-studded Mumbai side.
What’s next for Rohit Sharma?
Rohit Sharma’s decision to skip the Ranji Trophy and focus on white-ball cricket reflects his commitment to leading India in the limited-overs format. In view of the ODI series against England and the Champions Trophy 2025, Rohit will be aiming to regain his form and lead the team to victory.
Key points for Indian cricket fans
- Rohit Sharma’s Ranji Trophy struggles: The Indian captain failed to make an impact in his return to domestic red-ball cricket.
- Focus on white-ball cricket: Rohit has decided to prioritise preparations for the England ODI series and the Champions Trophy.
- Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy campaign: The defending champions are facing challenges with key players like Rohit and Jaiswal missing matches.
- Jammu and Kashmir’s impressive win: The underdog side showcased their potential and defeated the star-studded Mumbai side.
Conclusion
Rohit Sharma’s decision to focus on white-ball cricket comes at a crucial time for Indian cricket. With the Champions Trophy 2025 and the ODI series against England approaching, fans will hope to see their captain back in form. Meanwhile, Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy campaign continues to face challenges, and the team will need to regroup quickly to defend their title.
