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Xtra Time Web Desk: In what comes as a huge relief for the Indian team, captain Rohit Sharma on Wednesday announced he is absolutely fit to take the field in the T20I series opener against England at Ageas Bowl on Thursday. Rohit travelled to Southampton on Wednesday morning and took part in the practice session,

“My recovery from COVID-19 was good, eight-nine days have passed since the time I tested positive for COVID. We have seen that every player who tested positive for COVID-19 responded differently, I do not know what will happen going forward, but right now I am feeling fine. I started training three days back so that is why I decided to play the first T20I game. I do not have any symptoms, all my tests have come back as negative and now I am looking forward to the game,” said Rohit Sharma.

National Cricket Academy (NCA) Director VVS Laxman, who is still with the T20 squad from Ireland, oversaw the practice session. Laxman was seen having an interaction with Rohit during the practice session.  

“Speaking about the interaction, yes, I am yet to understand what was happening with this time. Today is my first day with the time. They were traveling to Ireland and played a couple of practice games as well. Trying to understand what sort of mindset the boys are in and understand every individual’s preparation. It was just about catching up. It’s always nice to be back,” said Rohit.

The Indian team management is in a dilemma whether to include Umran Malik or Arshdeep Singh for the T20I series opener. Both Umran and Arshdeep had a long session at the nets.

Speaking about Umran as a prospect for India, Rohit said, “We are trying to give him an understanding of what the team requires from him. We have to see what he has to offer to us. He is an exciting prospect; we have seen it in IPL. It is about giving him a role, whether we want him to bowl with a new ball or in the middle overs because when you play for a franchise, you have a different role. Guys here have a certain skill set, it is about understanding it, fitting these people in the side and giving them role clarity.”