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'We will miss him': Rahane says India star's absence 'big blow' but backs youngsters to step up in IND vs NZ Test series
IND vs NZ 1st Test: India's stand-in skipper Ajinkya Rahane admitted that they will miss the services of star opener but called it a good opportunity for youngsters to prove their mettle.
IND vs NZ 1st Test: Stand-in skipper Ajinkya Rahane on Wednesday spoke about opener KL Rahul missing the India vs New Zealand Test series due to an injury. The skipper admitted that Rahul will be dearly missed but also remained optimistic of other players filling his shoes. India vs New Zealand Live Score
While addressing a press conference on the eve of the first Test match at the Green Park Stadium in Kanpur, Rahane said:
“See, it is a big blow. KL Rahul is not available for these two Test matches, he did really well in England. He was in good form and played really well. Obviously, we will miss him but we have guys who can fill that slot, guys who did well for us in the past. Not too worried about the opening slot.”
Apart from Rahul being forced to sit out, other Indian stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma among others will not take part in the contest. While Kohli has skipped the first Test, only to return as captain in the second, Rohit and Rishabh Pant have been rested.
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Addressing this aspect, Rahane said this will be a good opportunity for youngster to prove their mettle.
"First of all, we will miss these three guys (Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant and Rohit Sharma). But it is a good opportunity for all the youngsters to play, whoever gets an opportunity, they will look to play with freedom. This team is all about backing one another. Conditions here and conditions in South Africa will be different, first, we are thinking about this series," he added.
Team India and the Black Caps are going to face off in a two-Test series. The second Test will be played at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
Kane Williamson-led New Zealand have all to play for as they would look to bag their country's first-ever series win on Indian soil.
