IND vs AUS: Rohit Sharma To Welcome Second Child With Ritika Sajdeh? Star Set To Miss Test For ‘New Addition in Family’

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IND vs AUS: Rohit Sharma is expected to miss the first Test of the five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against Australia, beginning November 22 in Perth, due to the rumoured impending birth of his second child with wife Ritika Sajdeh.

During a press conference after India’s recent victory over New Zealand, the Indian skipper himself addressed the uncertain availability for the series opener. “Right now, I am not too sure whether I’ll be going, but let’s see. Fingers crossed,” he told reporters.

Reports of Ritika Sajdeh’s pregnancy have been circulating for a while now, with commentators and former cricketers weighing in on Rohit’s likely absence. Former cricketer Abhinav Mukund discussed the rumour during the match broadcast, seemingly confirming the news as highly plausible and citing Rohit's dedication to family commitments.

Harsha Bhogle, speaking during the third Test of the India vs New Zealand series, revealed that Rohit could miss the Perth Test due to a “new addition" to the family. “Plenty of word around Rohit Sharma going into the tour of Australia,” the commentator said. “He might miss the first Test, hearing that there might be a new addition in his family.”

If the rumours are indeed true, then this will be the second child that Rohit Sharma shares with Ritika Sajdeh. The couple welcomed their first child, daughter Samaira, in 2018, and fans have since speculated about another addition to the Sharma family given Ritika’s absence from recent matches.

IND vs AUS: Who will be India’s captain if Rohit Sharma skips first Test against Australia?

The possibility of Rohit Sharma’s absence comes as India prepare for a highly challenging tour, with the squad needing four wins and a draw to secure their place in the World Test Championship final. Stepping in as captain, vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah is set to lead the side should Rohit be unavailable, marking a significant leadership transition as the team faces off against Pat Cummins' Australia on their home soil.

Notably, India’s tour itinerary includes matches in Perth, Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney, with an extended 18-player squad plus three reserves chosen by the selectors to ensure ample coverage.