Sunil Gavaskar Backs Kohli and Rohit but Expresses Doubts on Prasidh Krishna.

Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has voiced his optimism about India’s batting prowess, anticipating a run-fest series led by experienced batters Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the upcoming Test series against South Africa. However, Gavaskar expressed reservations about the fitness and capability of bowler Prasidh Krishna, hoping the player proves him wrong.

Rohit Sharma’s Team India, with the return of seasoned players Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Jasprit Bumrah, aims to break a 31-year wait for a Test series win over South Africa. Gavaskar, speaking to Star Sports ahead of the Boxing Day Test, expects Kohli and Rohit to perform exceptionally well, banking on their experience to counter the formidable South African bowling attack.

Gavaskar notes the ‘likely absence’ of Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi, suggesting that it could work to India’s advantage in posting massive totals during the Test series. The batting icons Kohli and Rohit showcased their form in a fruitful net session leading up to the Test series opener at Centurion.

Addressing India’s bowling lineup, Gavaskar expresses uncertainty about Prasidh Krishna’s ability to bowl extended spells, citing his recent return from injury. He hopes Krishna proves him wrong for the team’s success. Gavaskar believes that Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj are automatic selections as opening bowlers, considering their consistent performance in both white-ball and red-ball cricket.

The third pick for Gavaskar in the opening bowling lineup is Mukesh Kumar, citing his ability to move the ball, bowl good lines and lengths, and experience in playing long spells in Ranji Trophy cricket.

On Prasidh Krishna, Gavaskar states, “I am not sure about Prasidh Krishna. He has come back from an injury. If he is required to bowl 15-20 overs in the day, I am not sure if he will be able to do that.” On Bumrah and Siraj, he adds, “I believe Bumrah and Siraj pick themselves because of the way they have bowled over the last year and a half with the white ball and the red ball.” On Mukesh Kumar, Gavaskar concludes, “My third pick would be Mukesh Kumar because he moves the ball and bowls good lines and lengths. He has got the experience of bowling long spells because he has played a lot of Ranji Trophy cricket.”