Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma and his wife, Ritika Sajdeh, were blessed with their second child, a baby boy, on Friday, November 15, 2024. The couple, already proud parents to their daughter Samaira, born in 2018, is celebrating the joyous occasion in Mumbai. Rohit had taken a paternity break to be with his family during this special time.

Rohit’s Absence from the Australian Series

Rohit’s paternity leave coincided with Team India’s preparations for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. The Indian skipper did not travel with the squad, prioritizing his family commitments. This has raised uncertainty about his availability for the first Test against Australia, scheduled to begin on November 22 in Perth.

Despite his absence from the team, Rohit has been staying match-ready, as he was recently spotted practising in Mumbai. Reports suggest he is likely to rejoin the squad for the second Test in Adelaide, starting December 6.

Leadership in Rohit’s Absence

In Rohit’s absence, Jasprit Bumrah is set to lead Team India in the Perth Test. The team is also exploring opening combinations, with KL Rahul or Abhimanyu Easwaran expected to partner Yashasvi Jaiswal. However, Rahul suffered a minor injury during an intra-squad game but has been declared fit to play.

A Private Celebration

The couple managed to keep Ritika’s pregnancy private until recently. While fans eagerly await an official announcement, the cricketing fraternity has showered their blessings on the family. The joy of embracing parenthood again marks a beautiful chapter in Rohit and Ritika's lives, even as the Indian skipper juggles his cricketing commitments.

Looking Ahead

Rohit Sharma’s absence from the Perth Test poses a challenge for Team India in the high-stakes Border-Gavaskar Trophy. However, the team’s depth and Bumrah’s leadership aim to compensate for the temporary loss of their captain. Fans will be eagerly awaiting Rohit’s return to the field while celebrating his new role as a father of two.

As Rohit balances family and cricket, his commitment to both is a testament to his dedication on and off the field.