Rohit Sharma reveals his all-time favorite Australian Test XI

Indian vice-captain, Rohit Sharma, has endured a majority of successful outings against Australia in the past and will be looking forward to the home series against the same opposition in the coming weeks. Ahead of the crucial test on home soil, the Indian opener compiled together a list of 11 Australian players whom he felt did enough over the course of their career to make it into his all-time Australian XI Test team.

Rohit has opted to go with two left-handers at the top of the batting order in the form of Matthew Hayden and David Warner. While Hayden had a more cautious approach to his batting, Warner is feared for his explosive batting skill across all formats of the game, including Tests. At number three, Rohit made the obvious choice of including legend Ricky Ponting whom he also chose as captain of the all-time squad.

At four and five, Sharma opted with the duo of Michael Clarke and Mike Hussey to support what is already strong batting line-up. The all-rounder spot was occupied by Shane Watson, ahead of the likes of former players Damien Martyn and Andrew Symonds. The trusted Adam Gilchrist was Rohit’s first choice as the wicket-keeper of the team.

In the bowling department, Glenn McGrath and Shane Warne were the obvious first-choice bowlers to lead the attack as they are Australia’s highest wicket-takers. To support McGrath, Sharma chose the fast-pace pair of Brett Lee and Mitchell Johnson to fill remaining spots. 

Some notable missing names in the list include Justin Langer, Steve Waugh and Steve Smith. The exclusion of Sir Don Bradman from the squad was also another shock decision considering his exploits in the Test format.

Rohit Sharma’s all-time Australian Test team XI: Matthew Hayden, David Warner, Ricky Ponting (C), Michael Clarke, Mike Hussey, Shane Watson, Adam Gilchrist (WK), Shane Warne, Brett Lee, Mitchell Johnson and Glenn McGrath.