Team India will begin the Border-Gavaskar Trophy without regular captain Rohit Sharma, who has opted to extend his break after the birth of his second child with wife Ritika Sajdeh. As a result, Rohit will miss the first Test against Australia, starting on November 22, in Perth. Vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah will lead the side in his absence. Rohit is expected to join the team ahead of the second Test, scheduled for December 6 at the Adelaide Oval.

Rohit’s absence leaves a significant gap at the top of the order, particularly since India’s opening options are limited. Shubman Gill, who was the likely choice to replace Rohit, has reportedly sustained a finger injury, leaving the opening slot uncertain. Bumrah, taking on the captaincy for the second time in Tests, faces a challenging task in navigating India through the opening Test against a strong Australian side.

India is under pressure to deliver, especially after a 0-3 whitewash at home against New Zealand, which has jeopardized their chances of reaching the World Test Championship (WTC) final. To secure a spot in the WTC final, India would need to beat Australia 4-0 in their own backyard—an unprecedented feat. However, Team India has pulled off surprises against Australia before and will aim for another extraordinary performance.