If Rohit Sharma does well in Australia, then there should be a debate about split captaincy: Shoaib Akhtar

The Test series between Australia and India will commence on December 17 in Adelaide. Indian skipper Virat Kohli will be missing three Tests with the team to be with his pregnant wife, Anushka Sharma, for the birth of their first child. It is a no brainer that it will be the best chance for hitman Rohit Sharma to showcase his skills. He has proven his skills in T20 format yet again after lifting the 5th IPL Trophy with Mumbai Indians.

Calls have been coming up for split captaincy in the Indian team as experts have been seconding this option. Rohit has also led India to an Asia Cup title while managing things in Kohli’s absence. In the same light, former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar feels that Rohit Sharma should take up the role in Kohli’s absence in Test format. Though Ajinkya Rahane is vice-captain on paper in the longest format, Akhtar backs Rohit taking over the leadership duties.

Rohit Sharma is one of the greatest batsmen India has produced: Shoaib Akhtar

“Rohit is one of the greatest batsmen India has produced. Now he also understands the real value of his talent. Australia will be his best chance to prove himself as captain. He should grab it with both hands. He has the talent and ability to lead the team. It will be a tough test for India, and I would look for these kinds of situations as a player. The whole world would be looking at Rohit as captain and batsman. If he does well for himself and the team, then there should be a debate about split captaincy,” said Akhtar as quoted by The New Indian Express.

It would be Rohit’s first overseas series as an opener, and it would be tough for him to face the likes of Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Pat Cummins. India will perform well if the middle-order stands up to expectations, reckons Akhtar.

“In my opinion, India have the ability to win again. But if their middle order doesn’t perform, I see them struggling. People will be watching this series with great interest including myself. The day-night Test will be their toughest test. If India plays well in those conditions, then you never know. The first two innings of the first Test will tell us where the series is headed,” added Akhtar.