India’s T20 World Cup 2024 Winning Captain Rohit Sharma Likely to be Rested for ODI Series Against Sri Lanka
It is highly probable that Rohit Sharma, the captain who led India to victory in the T20 World Cup 2024, will be rested for the upcoming ODI series against Sri Lanka. This could delay his return to international cricket after announcing his retirement from T20 internationals following the World Cup Final in Barbados.
The tour of Sri Lanka, scheduled from July 27 to August 7, will include 3 ODIs and 3 T20Is. Rohit, who has been a part of every international series for India since December last year, is expected to opt for rest after a hectic schedule that included the IPL 2024 season leading up to the World Cup.
BET NOW: Exclusive sign-up offers and bonuses when you bet on cricketing action
When Will Rohit Sharma Return to Play for India?
Rohit Sharma, under whose captaincy India ended a decade-long drought of ICC trophies, is likely to return to action at the start of the next Test series. He, along with other senior players like Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah, has been offered rest to prepare for the upcoming cricket season.
BCCI Secretary Jay Shah confirmed that Rohit will continue to lead Team India in the ongoing World Test Championship and the ICC Champions Trophy next year. The focus for both Rohit and Kohli will be on playing Test matches, with India scheduled to play 10 Tests between September and January.
MORE: Who will lead Team India in the absence of Rohit Sharma?
India’s Next Test Series
India is set to face Bangladesh in a two-Test series in the World Test Championship, starting from September 19 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. This will be followed by a three-match home series against New Zealand in October, and a five-match Test series against Australia in November.
Despite being open for selection, both the selectors and Rohit believe that it is essential to rest and manage their workload, especially considering Rohit’s age and experience as a player in his late 30s.
In Rohit’s absence, either Hardik Pandya or KL Rahul are expected to lead the Indian team in the Sri Lankan series.