Rohit Sharma‘s retirement from Test cricket surprised many, but it was on expected lines. His poor form during the New Zealand series Australia tour had sealed his fate. Rohit wanted to lead India against England but announced his retirement before the announcement of the squad.

Daryll Cullinan, the former South African cricketer, believes that Rohit’s retirement was long expected and that his absence will not significantly affect India in the upcoming series in England. He noted that Rohit’s overseas performances have never matched his success at home, making his absence less significant.

“Rohit’s retirement from Test cricket was on the cards for some time. Honestly, he hasn’t performed consistently in overseas matches. He was not upto the mark in Australia and we him lacking in the captaincy department. I don’t think his absence is a big loss for India,” Cullinan was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.

After Rohit, Virat Kohli also bid adieu from the longest format of the game. India’s strength in England will primarily come from their fast bowlers. While the official squad is yet to be announced, players like Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Mohammed Shami, Harshit Rana, Prasidh Krishna, and Arshdeep Singh are expected to travel to England.

Considering India’s chances, the former South African cricketer pointed out that the team will have a solid opportunity to win the series, as long as all their bowlers remain fit and perform well.

“India certainly has a strong chance if their bowlers remain fit and perform well throughout the series. They will always be in the game with their ability to bowl teams out and the depth in their batting,” Cullinan added.

“This presents a chance for young players to take the spotlight and establish themselves. This series will be particularly interesting for India, as it will expose their players to challenging conditions, both with the bat and the ball.”