(Cricket news) The Indian side who are preparing for the 5th Test match against England have been hit with a massive scare. Captain Rohit Sharma has been tested positive for Covid 19 and is a doubt for the match. KL Rahul has already been ruled out of the match and now Sharma's absence is a huge concern for India. If Rohit Sharma doesn't recover then Shubman Gill is the only opener left in the squad. KS Bharat did well when he opened the innings in the practice match; he hasn't even made his international debut yet. Mayank Agarwal is likely to be sent to England as cover for the Indian skipper.
KL Rahul's absence is already a big loss for India as the partnership between Rahul and Rohit has been a main reason why India are 2-1 up in the series. Without Rohit, India's chances of winning will be considerably low, more so considering England's form. Gill and Agarwal will be India's best options but neither of them have much experience on English soil. It would be very disappointing for India if they lose the Test match and surrender their lead. There is a chance that India will ask Cheteshwar Pujara or Hanuma Vihari to open the batting which might be a good option. KS Bharat opened the batting for India in the practice match against Leicestershire and did a good job but it is unlikely that he will be asked to open.
In terms of captaincy, KL Rahul was the designated vice captain when the squad was named. There has been no official statement from BCCI regarding the new vice captain but it is likely to be Jasprit Bumrah. If Rohit doesn't recover in time, Bumrah will be leading the side which will be the first fast bowler to captain India in 35 years. Having Virat Kohli in the side is a huge bonus as his input will be very crucial. Other experienced campaigners like Cheteshwar Pujara, Ravichandran Ashwin and Mohammed Shami will also take more responsibility. Indian fans will be hoping that Rohit recovers in time to lead the Test side for the first time in overseas conditions.
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