Rohit Sharma comments on Mohammed Shami’s absence in Tests against South Africa

Rohit Sharma was in the press conference before the start of the first Test between India and SA. The match is set to start on Boxing Day at SuperSport Park in Centurion. One of the questions by the reporters was about missing out on an exceptional bowler like Mohammed Shami, who was ruled out of the Test series. The Indian captain expressed concerns over Shami’s injury.

The Indian captain felt that the absence of Mohammed Shami in the Test series against South Africa is a big miss. Rohit previews the series between India and SA which is set to happen in December 2023 and January 2024. Rohit said that it is an important series, as India has never won a Test series on South African soil. Sharma felt that it is a good opportunity for them to achieve a series win.

“Very important Test series. We have never won a series here. It’s a big opportunity for us,” said Rohit. He further added that India came close to beating SA in SA the last time they played them in their own conditions. He further added that the team is excited to perform well in the Test series to try and give their best. Rohit added that they have good encouragement.

Our seamers have done well in Australia, England and South Africa – Rohit Sharma

“We came close the last two times. That gives us a lot of excitement and encouragement to do our best,” added the Indian opener. The last time India played SA in their backyard in the longest format of the game in 2021/22, Rohit was not in the squad due to an injury. This time around, he will be hoping to win the series. For it to happen, the contribution of the pacers would be important.

Weighing in on the same, Rohit felt that the Indian pacers have done well in the past in the tours of Australia, England, and SA. The 36-year-old then added that Shami would be a big miss on the tour. “Our seamers have done well in Australia, England and South Africa.  The seamers have pulled their weight in. Shami will be a big miss,” said Rohit.