India Skipper Rohit's Knee Injury Not Serious, Says Pacer Akash

Dec 22 (MilkyStory): Indian pacer Akash Deep has downplayed concerns about skipper Rohit Sharma's knee injury ahead of the fourth Test against Australia this week. Rohit sustained the injury during a practice session on Sunday at the Melbourne Cricket Ground but appears to be in good condition.

Rohit, who missed the series opener to spend time with his newborn son and has struggled for form since rejoining the team, was struck on his left knee in the nets. Despite showing discomfort, the 37-year-old continued to bat before receiving attention from a physiotherapist and icing his leg while resting it on a chair.

"In cricket, such injuries are quite common and don't make a significant difference," Akash told reporters, noting that the practice pitch presented challenges.

"I think the wicket was more suited for white-ball cricket, so the ball stayed low, making it a bit tricky to bat on. But these kinds of blows are normal and nothing to worry about," he added.

India heads into the Boxing Day Test with the five-match series tied at 1-1 after securing a hard-fought draw in a rain-affected third Test in Brisbane. The visitors dominated the first Test in Perth, winning by 295 runs, but suffered a 10-wicket defeat in Adelaide.

"It's an even contest right now," Akash said. "Although we were behind in the last match, we gained some confidence. This Test will be crucial for both teams."

Akash emphasized the importance of the new ball for India’s bowling attack.

"As fast bowlers, our mindset is to take early wickets with the new ball and put pressure on them. In the previous matches, we've seen that we can create opportunities with the new ball," he said.

"However, after 30 overs, you have to wait for the batsmen to make mistakes," Akash concluded.