Rohit Sharma Ranji Trophy : In a move that has cricket fans buzzing, Rohit Sharma is all set to don the whites for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy after a staggering gap of nearly a decade. The Indian skipper last played a Ranji match way back in November 2015. This comeback, slated for January 23 against Jammu & Kashmir at the BKC Ground in Mumbai, signals that Rohit might not be ready to hang up his Test boots just yet.
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Rohit Sharma Ranji Trophy : Rohit Sharma to Return to Ranji Trophy After 3,365 Days, Is the Indian Skipper’s Test Career Still Alive?
Rohit Sharma’s Test Struggles: A Turning Point?
Rohit’s decision comes in the wake of a turbulent Test season. The 37 year old faced a rough patch in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25, scoring a dismal 31 runs in five innings on Australia’s bouncy tracks. The slump forced him to drop himself for the fifth Test in Sydney, with India eventually losing the series 3-1.
Statistics paint a grim picture: Rohit managed just 164 runs in 15 innings during the latter half of 2024. These numbers, shockingly low for a player of his caliber, led to whispers of his potential retirement from the longest format.
However, the Ranji Trophy return suggests otherwise. By stepping back into domestic cricket, Rohit seems intent on rediscovering his form and keeping his Test career alive.
The BCCI’s Push for Domestic Participation
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has emphasized the importance of domestic cricket for all players, regardless of stature. Recent Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) make it clear: if a player is available and fit, domestic cricket participation is non-negotiable.
This has led to a wave of star players, including Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, and Yashasvi Jaiswal, committing to domestic games. Rohit Sharma, despite his ODI dominance and upcoming ICC Champions Trophy commitments, is now joining the ranks.
A Ranji Comeback: What Does It Mean for Rohit’s Test Future?
Rohit’s decision to play in the Ranji Trophy could be a strategic move to gear up for the upcoming white-ball season. But it also raises hopes for his Test career.
With India set to face England in a grueling five match Test series away from home, a strong performance in domestic cricket could pave the way for Rohit’s continued captaincy and presence in the red ball format.
The Ranji match against J&K presents a golden opportunity for Rohit to get into the groove, rebuild his confidence, and silence critics who have questioned his place in the Test setup.
What’s at Stake?
Rohit remains a vital cog in India’s ODI lineup, having led the team to the 2023 World Cup final and scoring 597 runs at a strike rate of over 125 in the tournament. His leadership and batting will be crucial as India vies for a record third ICC Champions Trophy title in 2025.
However, his return to Ranji Trophy hints at unfinished business in Test cricket. A strong performance in domestic games might just keep him in contention for India’s Test captaincy and a place in the playing XI for marquee series like the one against England.
The Bigger Picture
For fans and analysts, Rohit Sharma’s return to the Ranji Trophy is more than just a comeback. It’s a statement that the Indian captain isn’t ready to bow out of the toughest format just yet.
With over a month to go for the Champions Trophy, all eyes will be on Rohit as he pads up for Mumbai. Whether this move revitalizes his Test career or serves as a farewell tour in red ball cricket remains to be seen.
FAQs
When did Rohit Sharma last play in the Ranji Trophy?
Rohit Sharma last played in the Ranji Trophy in November 2015
Who will Mumbai face in Rohit Sharma’s Ranji comeback match?
Mumbai will face Jammu & Kashmir on January 23 at the BKC Ground in Mumbai
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