The much anticipated India vs South Africa Freedom series 2018 finally kick-started on the 5th January,2018. With both teams facing the "problem of plenty" with team selection, South Africa went with 4 genuine pace bowlers while the Indian team management has surprised many with their decisions.
With Virat Kohli and co. deciding to opt for pace-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya for an extra batsman — nothing wrong with this attacking ploy — India had to choose between Rahane and Rohit Sharma.

The most unexpected and surprising move was the axing of Indian test Vice captain Ajinkya Rahane and the inclusion of the limited overs deputy Rohit Sharma. Rahane has been India’s middle order mainstay on away tours. Rohit who recently made the headlines with his 3rd double century in ODIs has been trusted by the team management to fill in the no.5 spot in tests ahead of vice captain Rahane. I woud not be out of place to mention that Rahane has an incredible average of 69.66 in four innings in South Africa. The last time Rahane played against he got scored a century in both the innings of the Test match. On the other hand, Rohit Sharma averages just 11.25 in four innings in the rainbow nation and has the highest score of 25.
Rahane's absence will be felt in the slip cordon too. India's record in slips isnt very good.Best hands dropped.

This can prove to be an opportunity for Rohit to make no.5 spot his own in Test cricket .

THE RISE OF ROHIT SHARMA IN INDIAN CRICKET IS ACCEPTABLE BUT THE FALL OF AJINKYA RAHANE SHOULD NOT BE BY ANY MEANS.

What message will Ajinkya Rahane get with this selection?