'Rohit's exclusion 'emotional': Pant says it's a management call

Rishabh Pant addressed the unexpected absence of Rohit Sharma from the playing XI in the fifth and final Test of the series against Australia in Sydney. Rohit made the decision to "opt out" of the match in Sydney due to a string of poor performances with the bat and questionable decision-making as captain. With India trailing 1-2 in the series, Jasprit Bumrah assumed the captaincy role leading the team onto the field for the toss in Sydney.

During the post-match press conference, Pant revealed that Rohit's decision was an emotional one. Describing him as the team's leader, Pant expressed understanding and support for Rohit's choice.

“It was an emotional decision because he has been captain for a long time. We see him as a leader of the team,” said Pant.