Rohit Sharma
When Rohit Sharma, the seasoned opener, strode onto the field for Team India in a T20I after a 14-month hiatus, anticipation was high. Leading the team in the absence of Virat Kohli, Rohit partnered with Shubman Gill in the series opener against Afghanistan at Mohali on Thursday.
In the first over of the Indian innings, facing Fazalhaq Farooqi, Rohit played a dot ball before elegantly dispatching the ball towards mid-off. However, a miscommunication ensued as Gill, the non-striker, was caught off guard, resulting in a mix-up. Despite Gill’s attempt to send Rohit back, the latter had already committed to a quick single. The aftermath saw Rohit expressing his frustration with Gill.
Reflecting on the incident during the post-match presentation, Rohit, although smiling, acknowledged the frustration of the run-out. He emphasized the importance of the team’s victory, stating, “These things happen (on the run-out). When it happens you feel frustrated, you want to be out there and score runs for the team. Everything will not go your way. We won the game, that’s more important. I wanted Gill to carry on, unfortunately, got out after playing a very good little innings.”
Despite Rohit’s early dismissal, India secured a comfortable win, thanks to an outstanding performance by all-rounder Shivam Dube. The 36-year-old Sharma was dismissed for a two-ball duck, but Dube’s unbeaten 60 off 40 balls guided India to chase down the 159-run target in 17.3 overs. Gill (23), Tilak Varma (26), and Jitesh Sharma (31) also contributed significantly with the bat. Dube, for his stellar performance, earned the Player of the Match accolade.
Also read: India’s Victory Secured by Shivam Dube Outstanding Comeback Performance
Rohit Sharma commended the positive aspects of the game, praising the batting displays of Jitesh Sharma, Tilak Varma, and Rinku. He highlighted the team’s willingness to experiment with different strategies, including using bowlers in unconventional situations. Rohit emphasized the importance of challenging the team in areas of discomfort, without compromising the integrity of the game.
