Ashwin's 100th Test: Rare to have players like him, says Rohit

India captain Rohit Sharma on Wednesday (March 6) hailed Ravichandran Ashwin as a match-winner as the offpsinner is set to play his 100th Test in Dharamsala starting tomorrow (March 7) against England.

Stating that no praise is enough for Ashwin, Rohit lauded him as a "rare" talent who has contributed consistently to the team's success.

The fifth and final Test against England, starting on Thursday, is inconsequential to the outcome of the series as India have already taken an unbeaten 3-1 lead. But it has become significant due to the 100-Test milestone set to be achieved by Ashwin and England batter Jonny Bairstow.

"(It's a) big achievement for any player to play 100 Tests. It is a big milestone. He has been a match-winner for us. What he has done for us, no praise is enough," Rohit said on the eve of the match.

"His performances over the last five-seven years, every series he has contributed. It is rare to have players like him," he added.

Ashwin has 507 Test wickets, making him only the second Indian bowler after Anil Kumble to go past the 500-wicket mark.

Another player who got the backing of the captain was the struggling Rajat Patidar. Patidar has not been able to make a mark like other India debutants in the series.

"Rajat Patidar has very good abilities. I like him. I see him as a talented player. We need to give him some more time," Rohit said.

Talking about the series in general, Rohit said the Indian team's ability to bounce back from tough situations has been the standout aspect of the side's performance.

"It has been a series of comebacks for us. Whenever we were put under pressure we were able to put the pressure back on the opposition. That was pleasing for me," he said.

On the series finale, Rohit said he expects the Dharamsala track to be a good one.

"Looks like a typical Indian pitch. There will be some movement when the temperature drops but looks like a good pitch," he said.