IND vs SA: "Rohit Sharma And Virat Kohli Will Definitely Be Under Pressure.."- Gautam Gambhir
Published - 23 Dec 2023, 03:16 PM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 12:24 AM
Former cricketer Gautam Gambhir highlighted the significant challenge for India in the upcoming Test series against South Africa. Gautam Gambhir highlighted that experienced batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will face pressure to perform in the series.
The Rohit Sharma-led team will take on South Africa in a two-match series. The first Test match is scheduled to commence at SuperSport Park in Centurion on Tuesday, December 26. The visiting team aims to secure their first-ever Test series victory in the Rainbow Nation.
The Pressure Will Be On Rohit Sharma And Virat Kohli – Gautam Gambhir
In a discussion on Star Sports, Gautam Gambhir emphasized that India’s batting will face a significant challenge in the upcoming series due to the Proteas’ bowling lineup. Gambhir pointed out that South Africa’s batting lineup is not as strong as in 2011.
“Pace, bounce and seam. I believe your batting will definitely be under pressure because South Africa probably do not have the same batting they had in 2011 but their bowling still has the might – (Kagiso) Rabada, (Gerald) Coetzee, (Nandre) Burger, and Marco Jansen,” Gambhir told Star Sports.
“I believe the pressure will be on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli because they have that experience. Bowlers definitely win you the series in South Africa but if your batters don’t put runs on the board, you won’t be able to create pressure for your bowlers,” he added.
Rohit Sharma struggled in South Africa, managing only 123 runs in four Tests at an average of 15.37. In contrast, Virat Kohli has an impressive red-ball record, scoring 719 runs in seven Tests at an average of 51.35. Kohli smashed two centuries and three half-centuries.
Bowling Will Be Tested As Much As Batting – Gautam Gambhir
Gautam Gambhir emphasized India’s bowling strength to challenge South Africa in their conditions. The former Indian opener highlighted the pressure on young fast bowlers, particularly in the absence of Mohammed Shami.
“A good series is expected because India also have the bowling which will test the South African batting in their conditions. The pressure will be on two fast bowlers as well. Along with Jasprit Bumrah, it will be the first (second) tour for Mohammed Siraj, and Prasidh Krishna, if he plays,” Gambhir further stated.
Mohammed Shami has been ruled out of the two-match Test series against South Africa due to an ankle injury. The veteran fast bowler boasts an impressive record in South Africa in Test cricket, having taken 35 wickets in 8 matches at an average of 23.23.
Jasprit Bumrah will spearhead the fast bowling attack, with Mohammed Siraj expected to be a certain starter. Mukesh Kumar and Prasidh Krishna are in contention for the role of the third pacer. Shardul Thakur might be preferred over offspinner Ravichandran Ashwin.
