Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has predicted white-ball captain Rohit Sharma to score a half-century in the 1st T20I against West Indies at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Both teams will be keen to start the three-match series on a winning note.
In a video shared on his YouTube channel, the cricketer-turned-commentator predicted that Rohit will lead the charge for India at the top-order. The 34-year-old opener has had a dismal time in the one-dayers and would be keen to hit the right chords when the T20Is commence.
“My first prediction is Rohit Sharma to score a fifty. More than 90 runs will be scored if we include both the powerplays. Not only 90 in the 12 overs but even 100 runs can also be scored. It is a pitch which will support the big-hitting,” Aakash Chopra said.Â
Rohit Sharma has enjoyed good success against the West Indies in the shortest format of the game. The Indian skipper has amassed 519 runs at a strike rate of 141.41 in the 15 matches he has played against the Caribbean side, including a century and four half-centuries.
“India will win this match” – Aakash Chopra
Aakash Chopra further reckoned that at least 8 sixes will be hit during the 1st T20I, considering that both teams boast power to hit sixes seamlessly.
“More than eight sixes will be hit, although you can consider 10 or 12 also because both teams are six-hitting sides,” the 44-year-old said.Â
The celebrated commentator concluded by saying that India will eventually emerge as the winner and go 1-0 up in the series.
“And I feel India will win this match,” Aakash Chopra concluded.
India have emerged victorious in 10 of the 17 T20Is they have played against the West Indies while they ended on the losing side on six occasions.
