Rohit Sharma, ahead of India’s pursuit of their third ICC ODI World Cup in 2023, expressed confidence in the strong resources available to his team. Leading the Men In Blue, Rohit will embark on this thrilling journey at Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium, where they face the five-time champions, Australia.
Regarding the team’s strategy, the Indian opener disclosed that, guided by coach Rahul Dravid, they are considering including the experienced spinner Ravichandran Ashwin in the playing XI for the match at Chepauk. The Indian captain also praised Hardik Pandya’s capabilities, describing him as a genuine fast bowler rather than just a seamer.
“I don’t simply regard Hardik Pandya as a seamer,” stated Rohit while backing his decision to include three spinners in the lineup for their World Cup opener against Australia in Chennai. “Yeah, I mean that’s the luxury we have where we can afford to play three spinners because I don’t really consider Hardik Pandya as just a seamer. He (Hardik) is a proper fast bowler, who can crank up good speed.”
”So, that gives us an advantage. That gives us that luxury of playing three spinners and three seamers as well. So, there’s a possibility of that,” Rohit expressed in the pre-match press conference.
Rohit Sharma suggests possible lineup changes for India’s opening match
Rohit Sharma suggests that India is aiming for consecutive World Cup victories on home soil and hinted at maintaining a stable lineup. However, he also emphasized the need to be ready for potential changes in the playing XI based on conditions and the opposition.
“So, your core of the team will remain the same. Your 8, 9, 10 players will remain the same. There will be one or two changes here and there, which you’ve got to be ready to accept and take it into your stride and move forward,” he added.
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