Rohit Sharma had another disappointing performance with the bat on December 3rd during the Boxing Day Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Chasing a challenging target of 340, Rohit was dismissed for just 9 runs. He and Yashasvi Jaiswal had given India a solid start, playing more than 15 overs without losing a wicket. However, Pat Cummins struck early in the 17th over, getting Rohit caught by Mitchell Marsh. Fans were frustrated with his continued poor form and began calling for his retirement.
@ImRo45 Rohit Sharma you should retire now. You're a burden on the team.#INDvsAUS #BGT2024
— Amrit Kumar Jha (@amritjha143) December 30, 2024
Rohit better innings in this series but still please retire
— karthik (@karthik90880220) December 30, 2024
@BCCI rohit sharma aur zor Nahi laga pa raha hoon retire pls https://t.co/Naw7uudoOU
— maddy (@madhava58852053) December 30, 2024
Thank you Rohit Sharma
Now retire#RohitSharma #INDvAUS— Men's Happiness (@DoubleXmeaning) December 30, 2024
Seriously, no hate on Rohit but leave this format man after this series, there is no point for you to prove in SCG as well, retire now. 🫠 pic.twitter.com/T8MPbnyQNQ
— Jaya Suriyan (@_jayasuriyan_) December 30, 2024
Cummins delivered another blow to India by dismissing KL Rahul for a duck on the final ball of the 17th over. Rahul, who had been shifted down to number 3 after Rohit’s return, struggled with his form as well. Despite initially opening the batting in the series opener in Perth, Rahul kept his spot at the top of the order, with India making the change due to Rohit’s form in the middle order.
If India fails to qualify for the World Test Championship final, Rohit could consider stepping down from his Test career. He had already retired from T20I cricket, and Jasprit Bumrah, his deputy in Tests since 2022, is expected to take over the captaincy.
India, chasing 340 at the MCG, faced Australia’s first-innings total of 474 with a score of 369. A crucial 61-run partnership between Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland for the 10th wicket helped Australia post a formidable target, and now India must either save the game or aim for a draw or victory.
