It is a great feeling to get back to the whites, says Rohit Sharma

INDIA BATSMAN Rohit Sharma has expressed his delight on returning to the Test squad for the first match against Sri Lanka at Galle, starting July 26. 

The elegant batsman had last featured in the five-day game against the Kiwis in October last year. The Maharastra-lad underwent a thigh surgery in November 2016, which ruled him out of England, Bangladesh, and Australia series. In conversation with Bcci.tv, Rohit said,

"I know in the back of my mind what I need to do as an individual. But yes, having said that, I am here to enjoy my opportunity, enjoy my time with the boys. It is always a great feeling getting back to the whites. It has been a long time, the last Test match I played was in October and it's almost been a year. I am very excited to wear the whites and see what's in store for me."

When asked if he had any goals set in mind for the upcoming series, Rohit replied,

"I would like to stick to my strengths and the way I have been preparing over the years for Test matches or ODI cricket. I guess setting goals and thinking about benchmarks will only add pressure to your performance when you are out in the middle."  

The 30-year-old reckoned that he will be looking to go out in the middle and try to enjoy the game.

"You always know in the back of your mind that you have to score runs, as simple as that. I don't want to take different sorts of pressures about wanting to score runs. I'd rather just go out in the middle and try and enjoy the game because all the opportunities you get, you try and make the most of it and enjoy it."

Rohit featured in the two-day practice game against gainst Sri Lanka Board President's XI and scored 38 before the game ended in a draw.
 

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