Rohit Sharma speaks up against the selectors' big call regarding Rahul's situation

KL Rahul’s place in the Indian Test team might be the hottest topic of discussion on social media and among professionals. Though that isn’t an issue that will have an impact on the preparations of the Indian cricket team ahead of the third Test match against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. At least we can have a sigh of relief at the words of skipper Rohit Sharma in the pre-match press conference in Indore. Rahul’s inconsistent form has evolved as a major problem as it is affecting the team’s performance. His string of low scores since South Africa tour the previous year and also his failure in the first two Test matches in Nagpur and Delhi resulted in his demotion from the vice-captain’s position. However, the Indian skipper didn’t change his stance on Rahul.

India after getting a six-wicket comfortable victory in the second Test, skipper Rohit and head coach Rahul Dravid made it clear that a player who has smashed multiple hundreds and are greatly talented, will always be supported by the team management in their worst times. Rohit repeated the same words on the evening of the third Test. India have still jow not named any replacement for the post of vice-captain for the remaining two tests of the series against the Aussies. 

"I said it after the last game also. When we talk about players going through a tough time, anyone with potential will be given enough time to prove himself. Being vice-captain or not being vice-captain doesn't tell you anything. At that point in time when he was the vice-captain, he was probably the senior most. His removal of vice-captaincy doesn't indicate anything," Rohit expressed on Tuesday.

Rahul’s replacement news sparked controversy to bring in the in-form batter Shubman Gill into the Playing XI. Gill has been longing for his batting seasons in the nets and taking extended catch practices in the slips and in the forward short leg, which somewhat indicates his return to white ball cricket. While asking about Gill’s intense practice, Rohit replied that it is a common routine for a cricketer and also stated that he will unveil the Playing XI only at the toss. 

"As far as Gill and KL both are concerned, that is how they train and practice before any game. Today was an optional training session for the entire group. All 17-18 are in the reckoning. It's not just about Gill and Rahul. But as far as our XI is concerned, we have not finalised it yet. I prefer it to be announced at the toss. Can't count out last-minute injuries and all and we will keep it interesting for you guys as well," Rohit added.

Rohit and Gill were among the few Indian cricketers who are following the practice session on the evening of the game. Gill is batting for a long time in the nets and  Rahul with many other players decided to skip the extra session, which is not a very distinctive scene before a Test match. 

Team India are leading the four-game Test series 2-0 and if the ‘Men in Blue’ manage to win the third Test, then they will not only seal the Border-Gavaskar Trophy victory but also will secure their spot in the Test World Championship final.