Former Indian batsman VVS Laxman believes the team’s vice-captain Rohit Sharma can get a big hundred if he is able to see off the new ball.
Rohit will play the Test format after a long time and it would be interesting to note his performance. The right-hander has all the experience under his belt and he will look to deliver the goods for the team.
Rohit didn’t play any Test match in 2020 but he had proved his mettle as a Test opener in Indian conditions in 2019. The flamboyant batsman had scored 529 runs in three Test matches against South Africa and he would look to replicate the same kind of success in the tough Australian conditions against a quality bowling attack.
Rohit is known to take the game away from the opposition if he gets settled at the crease. The right-hander can have some issues while facing the new red ball as it moves more compared to the white one. Consequently, if Rohit can manage to negate the early spell against the Australian fast bowlers, he will be a difficult batsman to get out.
Furthermore, the right-hander is known to bat big and he has shown that on multiple occasions in the white ball format.
Meanwhile, for Rohit to play in the third Test match, either Mayank Agarwal or Hanuma Vihari will have to be dropped. Laxman believes Agarwal will be dropped as Rohit has done well as an opener and his experience will come in handy in the absence of Virat Kohli.
“Definitely one of the batsmen has to miss out. Rohit Sharma will probably come in place of Mayank Agarwal because Rohit has been a regular opener since the South Africa series. He has a tremendous record now as an opening batsman but I think it is a good headache to have,” said Laxman on Star Sports Cricket Connected.
On the other hand, Rohit has a great back foot play as he is regarded as one of the best pullers in the game. As Australian pitches are known for their extra bounce, Rohit has a good chance of savouring success.
“Rohit Sharma himself will like to showcase his talent because I always feel his kind of batting is very very suited for the Australian wickets,” stated Laxman
“If he gets his eye in, if he sees off the new ball, I am sure a big hundred is on the cards as far as Rohit’s batting is concerned,” concluded Laxman
Rohit will look to deliver his best and it would be interesting to note his batting position. The third Test match will take place from January 7 at the SCG.
