Veteran Indian leg-spinner, Piyush Chawla, has highlighted the significance of captain Rohit Sharma’s return to form during the ongoing Asia Cup, emphasizing the positive implications this holds for India’s prospects in the upcoming Men’s ODI World Cup, which will be hosted in India.
Rohit Sharma has been in exceptional form throughout the Asia Cup, leading the tournament’s run-charts with a total of 194 runs from four innings. His impressive performances include three half-centuries, with an average of 64.66 and a strike rate of 108.98. These statistics underscore his capability to deliver consistently when the stakes are high. Notably, Rohit Sharma had previously topped the run-charts in the 2019 Men’s ODI World Cup, amassing 648 runs, including five centuries.
Chawla praised Rohit Sharma’s remarkable ability to regain form as major tournaments approach, characterizing it as a hallmark of a seasoned player. He emphasized that Rohit Sharma’s batting displays in the Asia Cup have exemplified his effortless elegance, focused on timing rather than sheer power. Chawla observed that Rohit Sharma’s resurgence is a positive sign for Indian cricket, as it enhances the team’s chances by providing a solid start at the top of the batting order.
Advertisement
Highlighting the importance of a strong opening partnership, Chawla explained, “When your openers are giving you a good start, you can build a bigger score, which, in turn, benefits the middle order. A proficient middle order, coupled with a strong start, significantly benefits the entire team.”
Advertisement
India’s upcoming Super Four stage match against Bangladesh at the R Premadasa Stadium on Friday will be closely watched, particularly regarding India’s performance against left-arm spinners. In their recent encounter against Sri Lanka, Indian batsmen faced difficulties against left-arm spin all-rounder Dunith Wellalage, who claimed a five-wicket haul.
Bangladesh’s captain, Shakib Al Hasan, is a prominent left-arm spinner who has previously demonstrated his effectiveness against India. Chawla, a member of India’s 2011 World Cup-winning team, believes that India possesses the capability to handle Shakib’s bowling prowess effectively. He praised Shakib’s experience and ability to bowl in the right areas but refrained from categorizing him as a significant threat.
Chawla also addressed concerns about former Indian captain Virat Kohli’s performances against left-arm spinners. He emphasized that cricket outcomes depend on various factors and should not be overanalyzed based on isolated incidents. Chawla defended Kohli’s abilities, stating, “If every team thought this way, they would include a left-arm spinner in their team always.” He further dismissed doubts about Kohli’s prowess against left-arm spin by highlighting his remarkable record, including 47 centuries in One Day cricket.
-IANS
Advertisement
