India vs Australia: Travis Head Supports Rohit Sharma’s Absence, Warns Against Underestimating India

India faces the challenge of starting the high-stakes series without their regular captain. Rohit is expected to join the team midway through the first Test or ahead of the second match in Adelaide, which will be a day-night encounter. About Rohit’s absence, Head stated:

Hundred percent, I support Rohit’s decision. I would have done the same in the same situation. We sacrifice a lot of things as cricketers.…..Hopefully, he returns at some stage in this series.

Despite this early setback, Head cautioned against writing off the Indian side, emphasizing their resilience and ability to thrive under pressure. Recalling India’s historic series wins in 2018-19 and 2020-21 despite injuries and doubts, Head remarked:

If you look at our history, you would not rule out any Indian team. In the last two trips, they’ve had injuries and doubts, and people questioned them, but they pulled off incredible performances. Whoever they play, it’s going to be a strong team.

India’s lineup, featuring experienced players like Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, and Ravindra Jadeja, will also look to capitalize on emerging talents such as Sarfaraz Khan and Yashasvi Jaiswal to compensate for Rohit’s absence. Head singled out Kohli as a major threat, calling him a “world-class” player who will undoubtedly have significant moments during the series. He said:

He’s pretty big…..There won’t be a series where you would play India and you wouldn’t talk about Kohli.

The first Test in Perth promises to set the tone for a fiercely contested series, with both sides seeking to assert dominance early.