After an eventful IPL, the spotlight has shifted to the upcoming series between India and Australia. Meanwhile, regular India skipper Virat Kohli will miss the last three Test as he and his wife Anushka Sharma are expecting the birth of their first child. Legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar recently opened up on whether Kohli’s absence will impact Team India’s performance Down Under.
Kohli’s decision to return home after the first of the four Tests in Adelaide triggered many discussions around the cricketing fraternity. Incidentally, Virat Kohli will return to the country after the first Test. The 32-year old was one of the most significant reasons that the tourists were able to record their first-ever Test series victory down under in 2018-19. With Australia at full-strength this year, it could likely be a challenging task.
Reacting to the same, Sachin Tendulkar admitted that it is a massive loss not to have Virat Kohli in the side. However, the Master Blaster sees it as an opportunity for a talented young batsman to establish himself.
“Virat Kohli not being there without a doubt is a big void but also on the other hand, the kind of bench strength that we have and the talent that is available, it is a good opportunity for somebody to establish himself. I would put Cheteshwar Pujara’s name along with Virat. These two players have played together more than anyone else. There is Ajinkya Rahane as well but he has not played as consistently in the playing XI as Pujara and Virat,” Tendulkar stated as quoted by India Today.
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Mayank is a confirmed starter – Sachin Tendulkar
Speaking about the opening slot, Sachin Tendulkar confirmed that Mayank Agarwal will definitely start considering his recent performances. However, with Rohit Sharma out now with injury, it will be a fight between Prithvi Shaw and KL Rahul to take the other spot.
“Mayank, I know, is a confirmed starter because he has scored big runs and if Rohit is fit and available, then he should be there. Between other guys (Prithvi Shaw, KL Rahul), that will be the management’s decision as they would be knowing who’s the form man,” he added.
