Former India player turned commentator Cheteshwar Pujara has applauded Rohit Sharma for scoring a much-needed half-century within the third ODI against Afghanistan.
He added that the opener is likely to be relieved to be back amongst big runs, and he would go to England barely relaxed as well. Rohit Sharma scored 79 runs off 69 balls as India beat Afghanistan by nine wickets with 21.2 overs in hand.
During a discussion on JioHotstar, Pujara said, “Irrespective of how big a player you’re, you wish runs, and the best way Rohit batted today (Saturday), the rhythm was visible. It was essential for him to attain runs. The team management is backing him, but as a player, once you don’t rating runs, the pressure on you mounts a bit of. So he would have felt a bit of relieved that he’s back in form. It is going to be barely easier for him when he plays his next innings in England, and that wicket can even suit him. He also performed well in fielding. He took three catches. So, overall, it was a great day for him. He can go to England barely relaxed.”
“The experience will certainly be useful” – Cheteshwar Pujara on Rohit Sharma
Nevertheless, Cheteshwar Pujara said that fitness and consistency can be the one questions regarding Rohit Sharma’s place in
India’s 2027 ODI World Cup squad as well.
“The experience will certainly be useful, especially because the World Cup will occur in South Africa, and you’ll need experienced players there. The one query is in regards to the fitness. Are you able to maintain your consistency once you play just one format? That might be the one query. He got out to Rashid Khan within the last match. The great thing on this match was how he rectified it. He wasn’t playing him as a leg-spinner but as an off-spinner. He targeted the leg side on most shots and tried to play with the spin because Rashid’s strength shouldn’t be leg spin however the googlies,” Cheteshwar Pujara concluded.
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