Political tensions between the neighbouring South Asian countries, resulting from three wars since partition in 1947, have prevented them from playing Test cricket. Despite this, their cricket teams occasionally play each other in shorter formats, usually on neutral ground during international tournaments.

On Thursday, Rohit appeared on a YouTube chat show hosted by former Australia captain Adam Gilchrist and ex-England skipper Michael Vaughan. When asked by Vaughan about the potential benefits of a Test series against Pakistan, Rohit replied that he "absolutely believes in it" and stressed the positive impact such contests could have on the longevity and relevance of the five-day format.

"They are a good team, great bowling line-up, good competition. Especially to play in overseas conditions, it would be great. I would love to do it. It would be a great contest between two teams... so why not," added the 36-year-old.

Australia have agreed to facilitate a series between the perennial rivals who have not faced each other in a Test match since 2012. India refused to travel to Pakistan for last year's white-ball Asia Cup, leading to a change in the format of the tournament, with some of the matches being moved to Sri Lanka. The two sides last met during the 50-over World Cup in India in October.