IND vs SA: 'Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma Are Class Cricketers' - Gerald Coetzee Excited About India Tests

South African young pacer Gerald Coetzee believes that the upcoming two-match Test series against India will pose the most significant challenge in his red-ball career. Gerald Coetzee acknowledged that players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are tough opponents.

Gerald Coetzee emerged as South Africa’s most successful bowler in the 2023 World Cup. The right-arm pacer took 20 wickets in 8 matches at an average of 19.80, with his best figures being 4/44. He finished as the fifth-highest wicket-taker in the marquee tournament.

Coetzee made his Test debut for South Africa against the West Indies earlier this year, exhibiting his effectiveness with nine wickets at an impressive average of 15.88. Amid reports of injuries to Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi, he could play a crucial role in the bowling lineup.

Extremely Excited About The Test Series – Gerald Coetzee

In a conversation with RevSportz, Gerald Coetzee acknowledged the presence of well-established players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the Indian lineup.

“The Test series against India will be the toughest challenge for me in my red-ball career so far. Naturally, I am extremely excited about it. There will be some nerves. The likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and others are very well-established players,” Coetzee told RevSportz.

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have been out of action since the World Cup final loss against Australia. The batting duo opted for a break from the white-ball matches in the ongoing tour. They will be next seen in action during the first match of the red-ball series against South Africa.

Virat Kohli And Rohit Sharma Are Class Cricketers – Gerald Coetzee

The 23-year-old bowler expressed his eagerness to compete against top-class cricketers like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Coetzee highlighted that the opposition’s caliber won’t be a hindrance for them to secure victory in the longer format of the game.

“I am looking forward to it. As someone who is a competitor and wants to be tested at the highest level, you want to play against these guys. It helps that the matches are in our home conditions. But for them, I don’t think it will be a hindrance. They are class cricketers. When the game day comes, and if I am playing, it will be full of challenges. And whatever happens, it will be a great learning experience,” Coetzee added.

Coetzee is the first player in four decades from St. Andrews in Bloemfontein to represent the national team. He has demonstrated his skill in first-class cricket, securing 66 wickets at an average of 27.80. He could pose challenges to Indian batters in the Test series.

The Mumbai Indians secured the services of Coetzee for Rs 5 crore, adding him to a squad that features bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah. The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) displayed interest but failed to acquire the young fast bowler.

Also read: Gerald Coetzee Bought By Mumbai Indians For 5 Crores In IPL Auction 2024