Rohit and Ritika welcomed a baby boy on November 15, their second child.
Rohit Sharma’s decision to miss the first Test of the BGT 2024 between Australia and India in Perth after he became a father for the second time has been defended by former Australia captain Michael Clarke.
Rohit and Ritika became parents to a baby boy on November 15, while they already have a daughter Samaira.
Many expected Rohit Sharma to fly to Perth to lead the Indian team in the first Test that begins on November 22. But the Indian captain has decided to spend some time with his newborn and family, before joining the team for the second Test in Adelaide, a day-night encounter.
Rohit Sharma’s decision was backed by the likes of Travis Head and now Clarke also shared the same sentiments.
Clarke added that while he loved representing the national side, the happiest day of his life was the birth of his daughter. Clarke said that family comes first and the birth of his second child is a very different moment.
"Let me tell you something, mate. I loved playing for Australia and I loved captaining Australia. I loved the baggy green. Having said that, the happiest day of my life was when my daughter was born. Much more than a Test match or a win or even a World Cup. It is very different, and you can’t equate it to anything,” Clarke told RevSportz.
Clarke said that while Rohit would be missed by India, he would also have done the same thing if he was in the star batter's position.
"Family comes first, mate. A Test match will come again, but this is a very very different moment. Yes, Rohit will be missed. His leadership will be missed, but I can tell you I’d have done the same thing if I was in his position. You can’t take these things away from anyone," said Clarke.
According to Clarke, Rohit made the right decision and can now fully commit to his work once he joins the team.
"No two ways, mate. You have to realize and understand that we are human beings first. Rohit has done the absolute correct thing. Now, he can travel join the team, and fully immerse himself into the job. And he will be a key player for India, for sure. But what he has done is exactly the right thing to do," said Clarke.
The second Test will begin from December 6 onwards in Adelaide.