Rohit Sharma has finally addressed the decision to 'opt out' of the fifth India vs. Australia Test in Sydney. The India captain chose to skip the match following a string of poor performances, sparking speculation about the end of his Test career. 

With India not scheduled to play another Test for over five months, concerns about the 38-year-old's future have grown. Rohit's struggles in Australia, where he managed only 31 runs in five innings, took a toll on him, leading to his decision to step aside.

"I don't believe in what happens five months later. I want to focus on the present. This decision is not a retirement decision. I am not going to move away from the game. But, for this game, I am out because I am not scoring with the bat. There is no guarantee that after five months I will not score runs. Everyday life changes. I believe in myself," he stated. 

"I stood down, that is what I would say. The chat that I had with the coach and selector was very simple that I was not able to score runs with the bat. I am not in form. This is an important match; we needed a win. We couldn't carry many out-of-form players. They backed my decision, which was difficult for me to take," he said on Star Sports. 

Rohit also broke the silence over his retirement. After Rohit Sharma opted to rest, Sunil Gavaskar remarked that this "might be the last we see of Rohit Sharma in Tests," with Ravi Shastri expressing a similar view. However, Rohit has now confirmed that he has no plans of stepping away from Test cricket.

"At the same time I have to be realistic as well. I have played this game for so long. Nobody from outside can decide when I should go, or sit out, or lead the team. I am sensible, matured, and the father of two. I know what I want in life.”