AUS vs IND: Sachin Tendulkar bats for Rohit Sharma’s inclusion in Test series

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy contested in the Test series between India and Australia is one of the most prestigious competitions in world cricket. India are currently in Australia for repeating their historic success which they achieved in 2018. With the Test series commencing on 17th December, Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar gave his opinion on a few of the most important aspects of the series.

Speaking with ANI, Tendulkar discussed the Rohit Sharma issue. The opening batsman has not played cricket since the 2020 IPL final and captain Virat Kohli is also unaware of Sharma’s exact fitness status.

“I do not know the status of Rohit’s fitness, that is something the BCCI and Rohit know. They are in touch with each other and so are the physio and team management, they would be the ideal ones to answer this. If Rohit passes all his fitness tests and is cleared, then a player like Rohit should be there in Australia. If he meets all the parameters, then he should be there (in Australia),” said the legendary cricketer. 

India will also miss the services of captain Kohli. The right-handed batsman showed his class in the recently-concluded ODI and T20I series in Australia. Not only the Indian fans but Australian fans were also eager to watch him bat for long hours in the upcoming Test series. However, Kohli will be returning to India after participating in the first Test in Adelaide.

When asked whether India miss Kohli dearly, Tendulkar gave his positive point of view on the development.

“(with) Virat coming back there is going to be one spot where a senior player, who has been around for a long time, who has toured Australia, not being there, (he) will be missed without a doubt… but the beauty about Indian cricket right now (is) that we have bench strength. There would be an opportunity for some other guy to go out there and do something for the country… (Virat) will obviously be missed, without any doubt, but it is about the team rather than the individual,” Tendulkar explained.

Ishant Sharma, India’s most experienced bowler in the current setup, will also miss the Test series because of an injury. Tendulkar felt that India have enough bench strength to be competitive against Australia. He stressed the point that injuries are part and parcel of the game.

The first Test between India and Australia begins on 17th December at the Adelaide Oval and it will be a day-night Test.