Being an opening batsman, Rohit Sharma will certainly hold a key for India in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2021 final against New Zealand in Southampton.

Having faced the Kiwi bowling attack in the shorter formats, Rohit is confident of tackling it in red-ball cricket as well.

According to the right-hander, keeping things "simple and realistic" should be the way to go for the Indian team in the all-important WTC final.

WATCH- Virat Kohli gives tips to Rohit Sharma for success in England ahead of the WTC 2021 final

"I have played those guys and know about their strengths and weaknesses. It will all boil down to what the conditions are, what sort of situation the team is in, whether we are batting first or second," Rohit told broadcasters 'Star Sports'.

"All that will count and it's important not to overthink. Against a quality side, it is also very important to keep things simple, and realistic," said the veteran opener, who has smashed more than 1000 runs in the inaugural WTC cycle.

Rohit Sharma, who has quite a few world records to his name in white-ball cricket, enjoys the challenges that the traditional format of the game throws over a period of five days.

"You are challenged for five days and which I don't happen anywhere. Everyday brings a different challenge, a longer game that needs patience, you play in different conditions and it's not the easiest," Rohit said.

"You have to be mentally fresh for five days to make good decisions on the field. Physically you need to be fit to accept and overcome those challenges," he further remarked.

Meanwhile, rain has played spoilsport on the opening day of the WTC final. It was pouring down at Southampton and the match officials had to call off the first session of the day.

(With PTI inputs)