Asia Cup | We want to give chances to as many guys for this particular series, says Rohit Sharma

Virat Kohli’s absence from the Indian team meant that Rohit Sharma will lead the young side against the likes of Hong Kong, Pakistan amongst others. A lot of young players have been drafted into the team and will be given a chance in the ongoing competition. 

And Sharma admitted that the team's middle-order is still not fixed and their objective will be to identify players for the number four and six slot during the Asia Cup. India will start their Asia Cup campaign against minnows Hong Kong on Tuesday followed by the long awaited match against Pakistan.

"Lot of spots are up for grabs like Nos 3, 4 and 6. All these guys (Kedar, Manish, Rayudu) are eyeing for those slots. We want to give chances to as many guys for this particular series. In this tournament, we need to seal the batting slot Nos 4 and 6," Rohit said ahead of the opener against Hong Kong.

Rohit's answer was an indication that former skipper - MS Dhoni will bat at number five. CSK’s Ambati Rayudu, who is back in the team having cleared the YoYo test, will be gunning for a chance while Kedar Jadhav is also back having recovered from a hamstring surgery.

"They are both important members of this team. Rayudu was originally part of England series and similarly Kedar before his injury. It was unfortunate that they couldn't play for some time and I am very happy that both are back in the team. I expect them to win matches for India," said Rayudu.

But the stand-in skipper did not reveal whether he was open to rotating bowlers in the tough conditions but did add that consistent performers deserved a spot in the matchday squad.

"I haven't thought about it right now. We want to see how each individual react to different situations. At the same time, we want to give chance to as many guys as possible but also give more opportunities to those who are consistent. We would see how individuals respond to conditions and take decisions accordingly," said Rohit.