AUS vs IND: Mark Taylor calls out India’s lack of clarity on Rohit Sharma’s exclusion from the Sydney Test

Former Australian cricketer Mark Taylor has openly criticized the Indian cricket team’s decision to describe Rohit Sharma exclusion from the fifth and final test of Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 as a being “rested,”

Jasprit Bumrah defends Rohit Sharma’s dismissal

In the draw, reserve captain Jasprit Bumrah he defended Rohit’s absence, presenting it as a strategic decision made in the interest of the team. Bumrah stated at the time of the toss, “Our captain, Rohit Sharma, showed great leadership by choosing to rest in this game. It reflects the unity of our team and our commitment to putting the interests of the team above personal preferences,”

Bumrah also confirmed two changes in the playing line-up, with Shubman Gill replacing Rohit and Prasidh Krishna stepping in for the injured Akash Deep.

Rohit’s form was a major concern during the series. In five innings of BGT, the Indian skipper managed to score just 31 runs at a miserable average of 6.20. His dip in form followed his struggles during Bangladesh series, where he scored 42 runs in two Tests at an average of 10.50, followed by another poor series with the bat against New Zealand. Given those performances, the decision to leave Rohit out for the crucial Test in Sydney has raised questions about the longevity of his Test career, especially at his age and amid increasing competition for the top spot.

Also WATCH: Shubman Gill exchanges words with Steve Smith ahead of day 1 Test in Sydney

Mark Taylor’s harsh words on Rohit’s dismissal

Taylor criticized India for the lack of transparency regarding Rohit’s exclusion, arguing that the term “rested” was misleading. He claimed that Rohit was dropped because of his form and not because of a willful exit. Speaking on Triple M Cricket, Taylor questioned Bumrah’s explanation at the time of the toss.

“This is not a crime – it is part of professional sports. If you’re out of form, you’ve been replaced. That’s how teams maintain their competitive advantage,” Taylor remarked.

Taylor pointed out that honesty in decisions would maintain credibility and avoid unnecessary controversy. His remarks reignited discussions about team accountability and the importance of clear communication regarding team selection policy.

“The bottom line is that the captain of the country does not give up the final, decisive test match of the series. This does not mean that it is discarded forever. That means he misses this game because he is out of form. But why not just tell it like it is?” Taylor concluded.

Rohit Sharma has… chosen a vacation? 🤔

Mark Taylor: “He’s dropped and I don’t know why they don’t just say he’s dropped.”#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/SHfHCuJwcn

— Triple M Cricket (@triplemcricket) January 2, 2025

Also WATCH: Steve Smith reacts after third umpire overrules his catch of Virat Kohli on day 1 of SCG Test – AUS vs IND