Rohit Sharma’s urgent Perth departure plan disclosed by Mohammad Kaif

As India prepares to lock horns with Australia in the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, Captain Rohit Sharma's availability for the Test series opener in Perth is still under the dark clouds. He is currently busy fulfilling his family commitments, awaiting the birth of his child, leaving fans and experts speculating about his availability for the Perth Test.

Despite the uncertainty, former Indian batter Mohammad Kaif has expressed confidence in Rohit Sharma's determination to lead the Indian cricket team in the high-stakes five-match Test series, which holds massive significance for securing a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final.

Mohammad Kaif confident of Rohit Sharma’s return to lead India in Perth Test

India is entering into the high-voltage Test series on the back of a demoralizing 0-3 whitewash against New Zealand at home. With the Indian cricket team’s morale bruised and their WTC Final dreams hanging by a thread, the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 is more than just a rivalry.

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Mohammad Kaif revealed that Rohit Sharma is closely monitoring the situation and will join the Indian squad as soon as circumstances allow. Praising the Indian skipper, Kaif said that Rohit understands his responsibilities, especially after India’s drubbing against New Zealand, and he is not the kind of leader to shy away when the team is struggling.

The former Indian batter also highlighted that Rohit’s absence for the first Test has not been officially confirmed because the Indian skipper remains eager to play in the first Test. Mohammad Kaif further explained that Rohit is currently focused on addressing personal matters, with his wife expecting their child.

His absence isn't confirmed because he does want to play: Mohammad Kaif on Rohit Sharma

However, Mohammad Kaif strongly believes that once the situation at home is stable, Rohit will make his way to Perth to lead the Indian cricket team. Despite not traveling with the Indian squad to Australia, there remains a possibility of him joining the team in time for the first Test in Perth.

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Mohammad Kaid said in a video on his YouTube channel: “The thought will be there in Rohit Sharma's mind. His absence isn't confirmed because he does want to play. He knows that India has just lost 3-0 (to New Zealand), and he is the leader. He is not the kind of leader who runs away when the team is not performing well.”

Kaif signed off by saying, “He is waiting for situations to get better at home, with his wife, who is pregnant, and as soon as that happens, I am telling you, he will reach Perth. That is why he has not yet confirmed that he will be out for the first Test.”

BCCI to arrange for Rohit's departure at short notice

The BCCI is reportedly ready to facilitate Rohit’s quick departure if needed. He is currently training in Mumbai.

The opening Test in Perth could set the tone for the entire Test series, and having their captain at the helm would undoubtedly bolster India’s chances. He has scored 408 runs with an average of 31.38 in seven Test matches on Australian soil.