Rohit Sharma
Captain Rohit Sharma expressed admiration for off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, labeling him as a “rare” talent crucial to the team’s success, as Ashwin prepares to play his 100th Test match. Despite the inconsequential nature of the final Test against England, with India already holding an unbeatable 3-1 lead in the series, the milestone for Ashwin and England’s Jonny Bairstow adds significance to the match.
“Playing 100 Tests is a big achievement for any player. It is a significant milestone, and Ashwin has been a match-winner for us,” Rohit remarked on the eve of the match. He continued, “What he has contributed over the last five-seven years, no praise is enough. It’s rare to have players like him.”
Ashwin’s remarkable record boasts 507 Test wickets, making him the second Indian bowler after Anil Kumble to surpass the 500-wicket mark.
Rohit also expressed confidence in struggling debutant Rajat Patidar, highlighting his potential and urging for patience in his development.
Reflecting on the series, Rohit praised the team’s resilience in bouncing back from challenging situations, a trait that has been evident throughout the series. “It has been a series of comebacks for us. Whenever we were under pressure, we managed to turn the tables on the opposition,” he noted.
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Regarding the pitch for the series finale in Dharamsala, Rohit anticipated a typical Indian surface with some movement expected when temperatures drop.
In a light-hearted moment, Rohit jokingly remarked on his captaincy tenure, saying, “I haven’t studied much in school. I am studying here a lot as captain.”
