Former Indian skipper Sourav Ganguly has urged Rohit Sharma to play the opening Test match in Perth. The 37-year-old welcomed his second child with his wife Ritika on Friday. According to reports, Rohit may not play the opening Test match, while a few other reports state that Rohit may fly down to Australia before the start of the game.
Sourav Ganguly during his chat with Revsportz said “I hope Rohit goes soon as the team needs leadership. I heard his wife delivered a baby boy, so I am sure he can leave (for Australia) as soon as possible. If I was in his position, he would be playing the 1st Test. It's a big series and the match is still a week away. He will not go to Australia after this. He's a fantastic captain. India needs his leadership”
Sourav Ganguly further speaking to Revsportz said that Mohammed Shami too should fly to Australia. The 34-year-old has just made his return to cricket and picked 7 wickets for Bengal in their 11-run win over Madhya Pradesh recently.
“Absolutely. He must go. He doesn't need to play the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. He should go to Australia by the next flight. Go and bowl in the nets. Even if he doesn't play in Perth, he will get to bowl and get ready," said Sourav Ganguly.
Team India battling injuries ahead of opening game
There are multiple concerns in India’s camp ahead of the first Test match in Perth. Shubman Gill became the latest player to be injured which is more or less likely to see him miss the opening Test match in Perth. This could also give Abhimanyu Eeswaran a chance to make his debut.
Reports also emerged that Devdutt Padikkal will more likely stay back in Australia. KL Rahul who was hit on his elbow on Friday came back to the field on Sunday. This is a huge boost for India because Rahul could most likely open the batting if Rohit doesn’t play.
The former India skipper also discussed India’s bowling attack for the opening Test match. Sourav Ganguly said “Shami may miss the Perth Test, but that will be bowling-friendly conditions. I think Prasidh will play ahead of Akash Deep, because of the height and conditions. So, Shami should be on the flight and should be ready to play the Adelaide Test”