Australian batter Travis Head has expressed his support for Indian skipper Rohit Sharma’s decision to stay with his family for the birth of his second child. Sharma, a cornerstone of the Indian batting lineup, will miss the opening Test against Australia in Perth, a significant absence for the visitors.

Speaking to the media at the Optus Stadium after a training session, Head empathized with Sharma’s choice, stating that family moments like these are irreplaceable. “We sacrifice a lot as cricketers. While we live a privileged life, we miss important milestones in our personal lives. You don’t get that time back. If I were in his position, I would have done the same,” said Head.

The Indian team will also be without opener Shubman Gill, who is sidelined with a thumb fracture. Team management is hopeful that Gill can return later in the series. Meanwhile, Sharma is expected to rejoin the squad ahead of the second Test, the pink-ball match in Adelaide. Reports suggest that Sharma will participate in the warm-up game against the Prime Minister’s XI to regain match fitness.

Despite not traveling with the team to Australia, Sharma has been training at the nets in Mumbai to stay sharp. His return will be crucial as India seeks to bounce back after a disappointing 0-3 series loss to New Zealand at home earlier this year.

Australia’s Head acknowledged the strength of the Indian team despite these setbacks, recalling their resilience during previous tours. India has claimed the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in consecutive series victories in Australia, maintaining their hold on the prestigious title for a decade.

The opening Test at Perth promises to be a challenging start for India, but their history of defying the odds against Australia will serve as inspiration.