Agarkar's Mission in Melbourne: Deciding Rohit Sharma's Test Cricket Future

Chairman of Selectors Ajit Agarkar is in Melbourne on a crucial mission to address one of Indian cricket’s most pressing questions—Rohit Sharma's future in Test cricket. As India's Test captain faces scrutiny over his form and leadership, Agarkar’s visit underscores the urgency of charting a clear path forward for the team.

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The Chairman of Selectors, Ajit Agarkar, is currently in Melbourne and is likely to have a discussion with Rohit Sharma regarding his future in Test cricket.

If India doesn’t qualify for the WTC 2025 Final, the fifth Test in Sydney could mark the end of Rohit… pic.twitter.com/a1IwmhPu7a

— Sportskeeda (@Sportskeeda) December 27, 2024

India's WTC Scenario

India’s chances of qualifying for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 hang in the balance. Currently locked at 1-1 in the five-match series against Australia, India must win at least two remaining matches to secure a berth in the final. Failure to do so could jeopardize India’s WTC aspirations and mark a significant transition in team leadership and structure.

ALSO WATCH: Yashasvi Jaiswal Run Out on 82 After Costly Mix-Up

Rohit Sharma's Struggles

Rohit Sharma, 37, has faced a decline in his Test performances over the past year. With an average of just 11.07 in his last eight innings, his role as a consistent run-scorer has come under scrutiny. Critics and former players have called attention to his dismissals, particularly in high-stakes moments, as indicative of a lapse in focus or waning form. The Boxing Day Test in Melbourne saw Sharma dismissed for just 3 runs, sparking renewed debates about his future.

Rohit Sharma's Future in Test Cricket Hinges on WTC Qualification

India's cricketing fraternity is abuzz with speculation about captain Rohit Sharma's future in Test cricket. The 37-year-old veteran is reportedly considering retirement from the longest format if India fails to qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final in 2025. This pivotal decision could mark the end of an illustrious Test career that began in 2013 and saw Sharma evolve into a dependable opener and a leader for India.

Breaking 🚨 🚨 🚨 #RohitSharma𓃵 to retire from International Cricket post , MCG test ....

It was a wonderful career from a local mumbai boy ...

( Source : 2 Sloggers yt chanel + Eminent journalists) #INDvsAUS pic.twitter.com/EWvUDeCFzt

— 𝔸𝕃𝕎𝔸𝕐𝕊𝔽𝔸𝕋ℍ𝔼ℝ (@harsh_hpt) December 27, 2024

Series Against Australia: A Decisive Moment

India is currently engaged in a five-match Test series against Australia, crucial for determining their WTC standing. To secure a place in the 2025 WTC Final, India must win at least four Tests in this series. With the series tied 1-1 after three matches, the final two Tests will determine not only India's fate in the WTC but also Sharma's future in the red-ball format.

Decline in Form

Sharma's recent performances in Tests have drawn criticism. In his last eight innings, he has managed just 155 runs at a disappointing average of 11.07. This slump in form has intensified scrutiny over his position in the team. During the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Sharma was dismissed for just 3 runs, fueling conversations about his declining effectiveness in the format.

Here is the updated ICC World Test Championship (WTC) points table as of December 27, 2024:

India's qualification for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 depends on their performance in the ongoing Test series against Australia and the outcomes of other teams' matches. Here’s how India can secure their spot:

Avoid Draws and Losses:
Key Points for Qualification:
Win at Least Two Tests Against Australia:

India needs to win at least two out of the remaining three Tests in the series against Australia.
A win in two matches would significantly boost their PCT (Points Percentage) above 60%, keeping them in contention.
Avoid Draws and Losses:

Draws or losses will reduce India’s PCT, making it harder to stay ahead of competitors like South Africa, England, and Australia.

The highly anticipated 4th Test Boxing Day match between Australia and India kicks off on December 26 at the MCG, with over 2.5 lakh spectators expected to attend across the five-day series decider. On Day 1, around 70,000 to 80,000 fans are expected to fill the stands for this thrilling clash. As the year ends, this Boxing Day Test promises to be one of the most exciting and talked-about cricket encounters of 2024.

Australia’s Perspective

The hosts, Australia, enter the fourth Test brimming with confidence. After their victory in Adelaide and a dominant performance in Brisbane, they have looked formidable. Travis Head’s counterattacking innings, Alex Carey’s late cameos, Pat Cummins’ aggressive leadership, and Mitchell Starc’s fiery spells have all contributed significantly to the team’s success.

Despite Josh Hazlewood’s injury, his replacement, Scott Boland, has been outstanding and capable of delivering exceptional performances. Steven Smith’s century in the previous match has revived his confidence, while Marnus Labuschagne is due for a big innings, having showcased flashes of brilliance earlier during the Day-Night Test in Adelaide. However, concerns remain over the poor form of Usman Khawaja, Mitchell Marsh, and Nathan Lyon, who are yet to make a significant impact in this series.

India’s Perspective

In this series, KL Rahul and Nitish Kumar Reddy have been the only standout performers in India's batting lineup, while Ravindra Jadeja has made significant contributions, especially in the last match and during recent away series. However, batting consistency remains a concern, with the team struggling to post big scores in tough conditions.

Key players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Rishabh Pant need to step up, while youngsters such as Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal must take on greater responsibility. Additionally, in the bowling department, apart from Jasprit Bumrah, significant support is needed from Akash Deep and Mohammed Siraj.

Probable Playing XI

Australia: Sam Konstas (debut), Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey (WK), Pat Cummins (C), Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, Nathan Lyon

India: KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma (C), Ravindra Jadeja, Nitish Reddy, Akash Deep, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj / Prasidh Krishna

Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) Pitch Report

The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) features a drop-in wicket, a common practice in Australia to maintain the pitch's quality amidst various events held at the venue. According to the curator, the pitch typically has a grass cover of about 6mm, contributing to its characteristic bounce. Historically, the MCG has been known for its lively pitches, offering assistance to both batsmen and bowlers. In recent years, curators have strived to balance the pitch to ensure an even contest between bat and ball, making it an ideal setting for Test cricket.

Head-to-Head Record at the MCG

India and Australia have faced each other 14 times at the MCG, with the following outcomes:

• Australia Wins: 7

• India Wins: 4

• Draws: 3

India's victories at the MCG include:

• December 30, 1977: India won by 222 runs.

• February 7, 1981: India won by 59 runs.

• December 26, 2018: India won by 137 runs.

• December 26, 2020: India won by 8 wickets.

AUS vs IND 4th Test BGT 24-25 Prediction

The first day of the upcoming Test is expected to play a decisive role. The forecast indicates a hot day with temperatures reaching around 40°C, followed by cooler conditions and potential rain later in the match. The pitch on Day 1 is anticipated to be fresh and batting-friendly, although the first hour might pose challenges due to some residual moisture.

The team winning the toss will likely choose to bat first, aiming to post a big total and apply pressure on the opposition. Given the unpredictable weather and the nature of the MCG pitch, adapting to the conditions and making the most of the fresh pitch on Day 1 will be crucial. A strong start could give the batting team a significant advantage, setting the tone for the match.

The toss will be pivotal, as it could determine the direction of the game. If India wins the toss, they are expected to bat first, score heavily, and put pressure on Australia, ultimately increasing their chances of winning both the match and the series.

Travis Head Returns and Boland Strengthens the Squad

Pat Cummins, the captain of Australia's cricket team, said that Travis Head can play in the important game on Boxing Day at the MCG against India, this was announced just before the game starts. Cummins also let everyone know that Scott Boland is coming back to the team, and a new player, Sam Konstas, is going to play his first game ever.

"Trav's good to go, he'll play, Cummins said. He worked on a few final details today and yesterday. There's no injury concern with Trav, he's all set for the game.

Last week in the Brisbane test, Head hurt his leg muscle a little when he was batting but he made it through a hard fitness test on Christmas Day. Now he can play in the fourth test of this series, which is all tied up at 1-1.

I don't think we'll have to manage him too much during the game. He plays his game as usual, Cummins added. If he feels uncomfortable while fielding, we might adjust, but he's fully fit."

Cummins praised Head's recent form, saying, "He's been in incredible shape for the last year, and it just keeps getting better. He hits the ball so cleanly and puts pressure back on the opposition right from the first ball."

Cummins was extremely happy to say that having Head in their team is amazing. He was totally, I'm glad I don't have to think through how to stop him with field settings, since he's hitting the ball in ways I haven't seen. I just really want this to continue happening!

A Historic Debut for Sam Konstas

At only 19, Konstas is becoming the youngest person ever to open a test match for the country at the MCG. He's getting this strikingly large chance because Nathan McSweeney felt unhappy with the team since he didn't obtain well in his last couple of tests.

He said Sam should simply enjoy himself and not stress much regarding playing, like when you are a child. He shared that when he was 18 and extremely excited, once the industry began, it truly seemed the same as any game. His advice to Sam was basically to remain placid and wholly enjoy the trade.

Building Momentum for the Boxing Day Test

Local favorite Boland is also coming back into the series after the second Test in Adelaide, taking the place of the injured Josh Hazlewood, who has a calf injury.

Boland did great in Adelaide, and Cummins was focused on praising him. He really knows how to bring his utmost quality approach every time he gets to play, and he's basically as good as the top bowlers we see globally. I'm counting on him to do something amazing again. There's something unique about him and the MCG  he's got more games there as an athlete than anyone else on our team. In addition his prep approach is strong, said Cummins.

Cummins added that it's great to have someone like Scotty ready to step in, even though it's unfortunate about Josh's injury.

 Australia XI :

SEE ALSO: Two spinners on the cards? India set to make radical changes ahead of the MCG Test

After the 3rd Test match result, the series is now level at 1-1, making the next two matches extremely important. All focus has shifted to the upcoming games, especially the Boxing Day Test on 26th December. This match is crucial for the series, with the stakes high and both teams eager to gain the upper hand.

The draw in Brisbane was a result of reduced play, with over 160 overs lost during the match. The weather disruptions left too little time for a decisive outcome, leading to the match ending in a draw.

With the Brisbane Test decided by rain, Melbourne’s weather will be the constant focus of fans. All eyes are on whether rain might again disrupt play. Here’s what the latest weather forecast is saying—let’s take a closer look.

Read Also : Australian Media’s Mind Games: Targeting Kohli, Jadeja, and Now Akash Deep Before Boxing Day Test

Melbourne's Latest Weather Forecast: Rain Alert for the Boxing Day Test

• Thursday, 26 December
  The day will start mostly sunny, with clouds gradually increasing later on. Showers are possible in the evening, but these are not expected to impact the cricket during the day.

• Friday, 27 December
  Expect partly cloudy skies with a medium chance of showers, mainly in the morning. This raises concerns, as the morning session could be disrupted or delayed due to rain, according to the forecast.

• Saturday, 28 December
  The third day of the Test match will see partly cloudy skies, with a slight chance of a shower. While some light showers are expected, they shouldn't be significant enough to disrupt the match.

• Sunday, 29 December
  The fourth day is expected to be mostly sunny with light winds in the morning. No rain is predicted for the entire day, though light winds of 20 to 25 km/h may affect the play slightly.

• Monday, 30 December
  Sunny conditions are expected for the final day of the Test match. The weather will be perfect, with clear skies and no rain in sight, making it an ideal day for cricket.

This is the most recent forecast from the Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology. As of now, the first two days may face some disruptions, with the second day likely experiencing major interruptions due to a slight chance of rain. The remaining days are expected to be mostly sunny with occasional clouds, according to the current forecast. However, predictions beyond the second day are subject to change, as Melbourne is known for its unpredictable and frequently changing weather.