Former Australian cricketer Michael Clarke commented on Rohit Sharma's position in the batting order, suggesting that it could prove advantageous for the visitors, as he might adopt an aggressive strategy against spinners.

India's captain, Rohit Sharma, expressed regret over not being able to personally inform veteran all-rounders Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja about their exclusion from the first Test against Australia in Perth. However, he affirmed that the team management's choice to omit the two experienced players was justified. The decision to field a team in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy opener without Ashwin and Jadeja raised several questions. Young Washington Sundar, who had taken 16 wickets in the two home Tests against New Zealand, was selected as India's sole spin-bowling option. Although Sundar did not make a significant impact with bat or ball in the first innings, he maintained a consistent line in the second innings and demonstrated resilience by forming a vital partnership with Virat Kohli.

Rohit, who was on paternity leave while India was competing against Australia, acknowledged the difficulty of excluding players like Ashwin and Jadeja. "Unfortunately, I was not present to deliver the news that they would not be playing in the first match. It is always challenging to leave out seasoned players like Jadeja and Ashwin; it is never an easy decision," stated the Indian captain, who is poised to return to the XI for the pink ball day-night Test in Adelaide, during a press conference on Tuesday.

"However, the decision was made based on what was best for the team at that moment, and whatever the management deemed appropriate at that time was executed."

Rohit believed that Ashwin and Jadeja, who collectively have 855 Test wickets, would be instrumental in the upcoming matches of the five-match series as India aims to maintain their chances of reaching the World Test Championship final next year.

"That is our approach throughout the series — to make decisions based on what we feel is best at that time."

Washington Sundar can bat anywhere in the world

Washington Sundar is being considered as a potential long-term replacement for the 38-year-old Ashwin. Rohit expressed confidence in the young all-rounder's ability to perform well in various conditions globally.

"He is a very dependable all-rounder. We have witnessed his capabilities both with the ball and the bat. His technique is robust enough to succeed anywhere in the world, and having such players in the team instils confidence," Rohit remarked.

"I sincerely hope he remains injury-free, as a player of his calibre is invaluable to our squad. He provides the necessary balance and depth that every team requires. I foresee his trajectory only ascending from here, barring any unfortunate injuries."

"He possesses all the essential attributes needed for success at the international level. He has everything it takes," he added.

Regarding the two debutants, Rana and Reddy, Rohit mentioned that although he had not observed much of their play in Perth, he was impressed by their competitive spirit on the field.

"It was quite remarkable to see them. I have only heard about them and watched some of their performances in the IPL. Nitish, in particular, stood out in several T20 matches prior to their arrival here," he noted.

"They undoubtedly have significant talent, and during the first Test match in Perth, it was evident that they did not play like newcomers. From the very beginning, they were engaged and eager to participate in the contest, ready to fulfil all expectations."

Rohit emphasized the necessity of players with such a mindset for India to secure victories in upcoming matches.

"Both of these individuals exhibited excellent body language, based on what I observed from home," he stated.

Rohit further commented, "It appeared outstanding, and these are the types of players you need in your squad to win major series and crucial games. You want players who can rise to the occasion and handle pressure, which is precisely what these two accomplished."

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