Dharamshala: It doesn’t happen often Rohit Sharma Cuts a calm personality in a team setting. On Friday evening, they circled Center Square, casually joining fielding drills while others went through more intense routines before the net. Rohit has never been the most agile, but his presence has always carried weight. This time too, the familiar voice was missing.The ODI World Cup in South Africa is still 15 months away, but the three-match series against Afghanistan starting Saturday feels like the start of an audition. Rohit, now 39, has scored 282 ODIs, 33 centuries and 11,577 runs. Nevertheless, he has to justify his place again and, most importantly, convince the management that he can physically withstand the demands of elite cricket.The head coach Gautam GambhirMeanwhile, the captain spent a long time in Shabman GulThe later ears of the latter’s batting tenure. Rohit quietly slipped into the nets for the second session. Even after the rest wrapped up, he stayed behind, practicing slip catches with fielding coach T Dileep before joining Ishan Kishan in wicketkeeping drills.For Gill, it’s hardly straightforward either. Before the last World Cup, Rohit had backed Gill’s promise of youth over Shikhar Dhawan’s experience. Now, Gill has to decide whether to stick with Rohit or look ahead, possibly pairing himself with Yashvi Jaiswal.On Friday, Gayle went for a brief chat with Rohit after inspecting the pitch before leaving for the team hotel.Team to rotate optionsWith Virat Kohli ruled out with a hamstring injury, the series offers an opportunity to test the combination. The management is keen to rotate between KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan and Yashvi Jaiswal.Harshit is likely to join the team before the third ODI.The Indian team management and selectors have asked Harshit Rana to join the squad ahead of the third ODI against Afghanistan in Chennai. BCCI sources said, “The team management wanted Harshit to be included in the squad before the series but it was decided that he needs more practice in the CoE. He is playing 9-10 overs every day and has been able to maintain his intensity. He is also working hard on his batting. He is likely to be officially cleared from the CoE on June 17 and will travel to Chennai immediately.” BCCI sources said.
