VVS Laxman believes that the availability of Rohit Sharma is a big boost in the absence of Virat Kohli.
India's limited-overs vice-captain Rohit Sharma has been included in the squad for the rest two Test matches with an added responsibility of being the deputy to Ajinkya Rahane. The comeback of Rohit has been discussed upon each time India batted in the series so far.
He is now with the team and all set to wear the whites in Sydney from Thursday, January 7. Former Indian cricketer VVS Laxman is not alone being excited for the 'Hitman's' return to the Indian cricket team. He believes that the opener has to see off the new ball and a big hundred is on the cards for him.
VVS Laxman said on Cricket Connected, "The Indian cricket team will be very pleased to have Rohit Sharma back, especially when Virat is not there. You want more experience in the Indian dressing room because now is the perfect opportunity for us to go 2-1 in Sydney and then probably win 3-1."
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"Rohit Sharma himself would like to showcase his talent because I always feel that his style of batting and talent is very suited for the Australian wicket. So, if he gets his eye in, if he sees through the new ball, I'm sure that a big hundred is on the cards as far as Rohit's batting is concerned," he added.
The former Test No. 5 for Team India also had a few words of appreciation for the entire team and support staff for their magnificent comeback in the series in the Boxing Day Test.
Laxman said, "See, a lot can be talked off the field but I think the reply, and a very a fitting reply has been given by the Indian team. It's obvious that once you're bowled out for 36, various cricket experts will think that Virat Kohli leaving the series and (Mohammed) Shami being ruled out, the Indian team could sort off disintegrate and could result in a very poor outing in the remainder of the series but credit to the entire team, support staff, the way they bounced back positively."
(With inputs from PTI)