Aakash Chopra said that he is not going to criticize Rohit Sharma for reportedly deciding to miss the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. He pointed out that people have mixed views about the Indian captain’s possible absence.
The first Test between India and Australia is set to begin in Perth on Friday, November 22. Recently, Rohit and his wife welcomed a baby boy, and reports suggest that Rohit may skip the series opener to spend time with his family.
Aakash Chopra explained that it’s a personal decision, and neither he nor the fans should judge it. He also shared that such situations are not new in cricket, recalling instances like Sunil Gavaskar being in New Zealand when his son Rohan was born and Virat Kohli leaving after the first Test in the last Border-Gavaskar series for the birth of his child.
Chopra mentioned that times have changed, and paternity leave is now considered normal. He advised people not to compare cricketers with soldiers on the border, as everyone has different priorities in life.
He said, “If Rohit has decided to stay back for his family, it’s his personal choice, and we should respect it. No two people are the same. Don’t overthink this decision; just accept it.”
Rohit Sharma has scored 4,270 runs in 64 Tests at an average of 42.27, but his performance in Australia has been below his usual standards, with 408 runs in seven Tests at an average of 31.38.
Chopra concluded by saying that it’s better to leave such personal matters to the individual and not debate them too much.
