Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli may have felt they can't drive Test cricket as before: Shardul Thakur
“There is a great deal of protection when senior players are around, and having a good mix of senior and junior players in the team provides flourishing results," Thakur opined.
Shardul Thakur feels that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli might have stepped away from Test cricket, knowing that they can't contribute or drive the format like they used to. While Rohit announced his retirement from red-ball cricket on May 7, Kohli followed suit on May 12.
Thakur, who is back in India's Test team for the upcoming five-match series, said that the presence of the two senior statesmen gave the others in the setup a lot of protection. The veteran all-rounder also said that a good combination of youth and experience works wonders, providing good results.
“They are the most senior figures in the game, but such decisions are personal. It comes when they feel they can’t contribute or drive the format as before,” Thakur said while speaking to RevSportz.
“There is a great deal of protection when senior players are around, and having a good mix of senior and junior players in the team provides flourishing results,” he added.
Thakur opined that in the absence of Rohit and Kohli, the role of Ravindra Jadeja, who is now the most experienced player in the Test squad, will become all the more important. The Mumbai cricketer said that during the England tour, all the players will be tested, including the new leaders in the team.
"Jaddu is now the most experienced. This tour will test everyone, with new responsibilities, including leadership roles. It’s a fresh challenge, but we have the talent. Young players must seize this opportunity to build their own legacy,” Shardul said.
Weather is the biggest challenge in England: Shardul Thakur
Thakur believes that the unpredictable weather will be the biggest challenge in England during the forthcoming tour.
“I think weather is the biggest challenge in England. In one day, you can see all three weathers. It gets suddenly cold. When the sun is out it is nice and warm. And when it’s cloudy, it’s starts drizzling again,” Thakur explained.
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The Indian team is expected to leave for England on June 6. The first Test will be played at Headingley, Leeds, commencing on June 20.
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