Sachin Tendulkar Terms Virat Kohli's Absence From Three Tests In Australia A 'Big Void'

Former Indian batting great Sachin Tendulkar has opined on Virat Kohli’s absence from the last three Tests in the upcoming tour of Australia. Virat Kohli’s decision to return home after the first of the four Tests in Adelaide triggered many discussions around the cricketing fraternity. While Sachin Tendulkar sees it as a massive loss, he also identifies it as opportunities for youngsters.

Indian captain Virat Kohli has to return home early from Australia to be with his wife for the impending birth of their first child. The 32-year old was one of the most significant reasons that the tourists were able to record their first-ever Test series victory down under in 2018-19. With Australia at full-strength this year, it could likely be a challenging task. Hence, Kohli has to begin to set the tone from the limited-overs leg itself.

Sachin Tendulkar Virat Kohli’s loss in the Test series as a massive loss to India; however, heaped praises on India’s batting depth. The 47-year old sees it as an opportunity for a talented young batsman to establish himself. Tendulkar added that Cheteshwar Pujara as another significant factor, leading India’s hopes and slightly Ajinkya Rahane as well.

“Virat not being there without a doubt is a big void but also on the other hand, the kind of bench strength that we have and the talent that is available, it is a good opportunity for somebody to establish himself. I would put Cheteshwar Pujara’s name along with Virat. These two players have played together more than anyone else. There is Ajinkya Rahane as well but he has not played as consistently in the playing XI as Pujara and Virat,” Tendulkar stated as quoted by India Today.

Mayank, I know, is a confirmed starter: Sachin Tendulkar

The highest run-getter in Test and ODI cricket reckons that Mayank Agarwal remains a confirmed starter while Rohit Sharma will walk in when declared fit. Sachin believes that the likes of KL Rahul and Prithvi Shaw will fight for the remaining spot as the management will decide who is the in-form player.

“Mayank, I know, is a confirmed starter because he has scored big runs and if Rohit is fit and available, then he should be there. Between other guys (Prithvi Shaw, KL Rahul), that will be the management’s decision as they would be knowing who’s the form man,” he added.

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