KL Rahul already missing India legends Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma

KL Rahul already missing India legends Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma

Indian batter KL Rahul is feeling the loss of former teammates Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma as he prepares for a gruelling five-Test series against old foes England.

Kohli and Sharma announced their surprise retirement from red-ball cricket in May. This gave selectors ample time to consider replacements for the England tour, which gets underway in Leeds on Friday.

Speaking in a Delhi Capitals press conference, Rahul revealed that the stalwart pair - who had an incredible 190 Tests between them - will leave a huge vacuum, especially in the changeroom.

"Virat and Rohit have been the pillars of Indian cricket for the last decade or so, and not having them around will be a huge miss," said Rahul.

"In my whole career so far, I have never walked into a team where there is no Virat or Rohit. The 50-odd Test matches that I have played, either Virat or Rohit or both of them have been there. To walk into that dressing room feels a bit strange.

"But of course, you have to respect their decision. They have given absolutely everything for the country and they will remain legends of Indian cricket. But it's time for the rest of us to step up."

Shubman Gill will lead the Indian troops in the wake of captain Sharma's retirement.

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