MCA Selectors To Meet Rohit Sharma To Confirm Availability For Ranji Trophy Amidst Uncertainty (Source: AP)
The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) will approach India captain Rohit Sharma to confirm his availability for the Ranji Trophy match against Jammu and Kashmir from January 23. Rohit's career was jeopardised following horrible returns in the previous two Test series against New Zealand and Australia where the veteran failed to make any significant contributions. It came to a stage where Rohit had to drop himself from the playing XI for the fifth Test against Australia in Sydney.
Speculations were rife that Rohit could retire following the Border- Gavaskar series, but it is understood that the skipper is willing to continue playing Test cricket.
"The selectors are expected to announce the squad on January 20, during which they will follow the due process of checking for the availability of every player. Rohit will also be approached around the time for selection," a Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) official told PTI.
Rohit is working hard on his fitness and even attended the Mumbai Ranji practice session that raised hopes of his return to domestic cricket, however, no formal discussions between MCA and Rohit has taken place.
After the series defeat to Australia, India coach Gautam Gambhir told his players to play domestic cricket to show their commitment towards the longer format of the game.
"I would always like everyone to play domestic cricket. That is how much importance domestic cricket needs to be given. Not only one game. If they are available and they have the commitment to play red ball cricket, everyone should play domestic cricket. As simple as it can get. If you don't give importance to domestic cricket, you will never get the desired players that you want," Gambhir said.
Meanwhile, several Indian players have committed to play Ranji Trophy matches when not on national duty. Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, and Rishabh Pant will be taking the field for their respective teams in their next Ranji Trophy matches.
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