India’s ODI stand-in skipper KL Rahul reckons the youngsters won’t be under pressure to fill in the big shoes of Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma in the three-match ODI series against South Africa. Both Kohli and Sharma requested rest from the 50-overs format; thus, the youngsters will get opportunities to prove their mettle.

The likes of Rinku Singh, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Mukesh Kumar, and Ravi Bishnoi have impressed in the T20I format and all of them will want to take their chances with both hands in the ODI version of the game. Rahul said the team will continue to play aggressively but acknowledged that youngsters will take their time to get settled at the top level.

“I don’t think a lot will change in terms of how we want to play ODI cricket. There are a few new faces and to expect them to go out and play the role that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli played in the World Cup will be too early. You have to give them time and make them feel comfortable. There’s no added pressure from my side,” Rahul said in the pre-series press conference.

The wicket-keeper bat is hopeful that young players will get accustomed to the South African conditions and will deliver for the team.

“We need to focus on what’s in front of us. Playing in the World Cup was really exciting, but we need to figure out what works of us here in these conditions and tray and adapt. That is what we are looking forward to doing. I trust the players and expect them to do the job for their team,” he added.

Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will be part of the two-match Test series against South Africa.

The first ODI will be played at the New Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg on Sunday.