Harbhajan Singh said that Kohli is a big player and him missing three tests is a huge loss, but it will also be an opportunity for these players to step in
Indian skipper Virat Kohli's absence in the three Test matches in Australia owing to his parental duties has become a cause of concern. As, not just as a player, his contribution in the longest format as a captain and leader in the field was a major reason why India won the series 2-1 when they toured Down Under the last time.
However, Harbhajan Singh speaking to Sports Tak said that his absence should be seen as an opportunity by other players in the team. Harbhajan said that with Kohli being not there in the playing XI, it opens a door for KL Rahul, who is making a comeback into the test side.
"Virat Kohli is coming back after the first Test but this open the window of opportunity for someone like KL Rahul, who is coming back into the Test team. Virat Kohli is a big player and he has scored runs whenever he has toured Australia, his absence will be missed but this is an opportunity for players to step in."
Great opportunity for Pujara, Rahul
Harbhajan mentioned that no one should forget that Kohli's unavailability is a huge loss for the team but players like Cheteshwar Pujara and Rahul have to make the most of it. Pujara was the highest scorer for India in the last series in Australia, amassing 521 runs in four games. Pujara's centuries in Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney played a massive role in India winning the Tests in Adelaide and Melbourne as well as ensuring that the series was wrapped up in grand style. Pujara batted for over 1200 deliveries and it was more than what Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid and Virat Kohli had batted in previous tours.
"Virat Kohli's absence should be seen in this manner. KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara are big players and they have an opportunity to prove themselves. If Rohit Sharma opens in a Test match in Australia, it's a big thing in itself. I think Team India has it in them but the fact that Virat Kohli is there or not should be forgotten. The team should just remember that they are in Australia to win and repeat what they did the last time," said Harbhajan on the show.
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