Rohit Sharma is someone who is enjoying the challenges: Saba Karim

Former Indian wicketkeeper Saba Karim showered praise on Rohit Sharma for his finesse in handling challenges. With Rohit at the helm, the Indian team asserted control on Day 1 of the fifth and final Test against England at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamshala. India concluded the opening day strongly after bowling out England for a mere 218 in their first innings. Rohit displayed confidence throughout the day, contributing to a 104-run opening partnership with Yashasvi Jaiswal.

Karim observed Rohit's apparent fondness for the challenges presented by the Test series, particularly highlighting his Day 1 display leading into the second day, Friday. Additionally, he highlighted Rohit's remarkable century in the Rajkot Test. Despite facing multiple challenges throughout the series, including the absence of Virat Kohli and KL Rahul due to injury, as well as Shreyas Iyer's exclusion from the team due to poor form, Rohit has demonstrated a commendable performance as both a player and captain. Moreover, the Indian team had to incorporate five debutants into the series, which added to the pressure on the captain's shoulders.

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"You've seen that in Rajkot, the team was in a difficult situation and he came out with a 100. He's someone who is enjoying the challenges. That is something as an experienced player, you thrive on these kinds of situations. Yesterday, that balance was there, he was in his elements that pull off the short ball to Wood is an indication of he's doing well," Saba Karim told JioCinema.

Nick Knight, a former England cricketer, expressed admiration for Rohit's leadership skills and believed that he had not received sufficient recognition in this series. He emphasized that he was particularly impressed with the manner in which Rohit guided the team, especially considering the pressure he faced.

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"I'll start with Rohit. I won't necessarily start with his batting because it kind of looks after itself for the moment. But I would want to pick out the leader in Rohit. 5 debutants in the series, several senior players not available for various reasons. That puts pressure on the captaincy. Put pressure on how you deal with your dressing room. It puts pressure on how you get the best out of those debutants, and all of that is a massive tick. I have been super impressed with the way he's led the side with the side that was under pressure," Knight said.