Rohit Sharma justified his elevation as Test opener by slamming a classy century on the opening day of the first Test between India and South Africa in Visakhapatnam on Wednesday (October 1).

Rohit came out to open the innings alongside Mayank Agarwal after the hosts won the toss and opted to bat first. After surviving the new ball threat, Rohit smashed the Proteas bowlers to all parts of the ground.

India’s limited-overs vice-captain displayed his full array of strokes to notch up his fourth Test ton in 154 balls. Rohit was unbeaten on 115 (12 fours and 5 sixes) when the first day’s play was called off early in the final session due to rain.

Following his heroics on Day 1, Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar revealed how he realised Rohit's true potential in 2013. He mentioned that he had asked the Indian batsman to add a G, for great, before his name (GRS = Great Rohit Sharma) and play in the manner thinking he is the best batter of his country.

Akhtar further highlighted that there was a never a question on Rohit’s pedigree as Test batsman, it was just that he wasn't able to make use of his potential due to lack of confidence and going into a shell playing in whites.

Akhtar cited examples of modern-day greats such as Virat Kohli and Steve Smith, who play with courage and back their instincts in the longest format. He now expects Rohit to do the same and also went on to predict that the Mumbaikar will aggregate 700-1000 runs in a five-match Test series in the future.

Rohit Sharma added 61 runs to his overnight tally of 115 before being dismissed by Keshav Maharaj in the morning session on Day 2.