India’s captain, Rohit Sharma, believes that strong performances from the top-order batsmen will be crucial for the team’s success in the upcoming Champions Trophy. Speaking ahead of India’s opening match against Bangladesh in Dubai on Thursday (February 20), Rohit emphasized the importance of big scores from the top four batters.
“Having one of the top-four batters score big in each match is the key to success in this format,” Rohit said. The Indian top order, comprising Rohit himself, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, and Shreyas Iyer, has been in excellent form recently. Rohit and Gill have both smashed centuries, Kohli returned to form with a half-century in the last ODI against England, and Iyer has been consistent since his return to the 50-overs squad.
Top-Order Firepower
Rohit highlighted the importance of the top-order batsmen setting the foundation for big totals. “Your top-three, four, or five batters need to get those big scores to post a competitive total. Our top-four are experienced, and once they’re set, they can convert starts into big runs,” he said.
Reflecting on India’s performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup, Rohit noted that the team consistently posted 330-plus scores despite only a few centuries. “In the World Cup, our top-seven scored the most runs in the tournament—2982 runs with seven centuries and 18 half-centuries. That’s the kind of contribution we need again,” he added.
Gill’s Stellar Form
Rohit praised his opening partner, Shubman Gill, who has been in sensational form. Gill, who was dropped from the Test squad during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, has silenced critics with his performances in ODIs. In the recent series against England, he scored 87, 60, and 112, and coincidentally became the No. 1 ODI batter in the ICC rankings on Wednesday, overtaking Babar Azam.
“There was never a doubt about Gill’s ability. We tend to mix formats, but certain players excel in specific formats. Gill’s numbers in ODIs are crazy, and we’re happy to have him in this form,” Rohit said.
Team Focus on the Champions Trophy
Rohit expressed the team’s determination to win the Champions Trophy, which is being held for the first time since 2017. “It’s a very important tournament for us. We want to lift the trophy, but there are many things we need to do right to achieve that. Our focus will be on taking it one game at a time and executing our plans,” he said.
Shami’s Return Bolsters Bowling Attack
The Indian skipper also welcomed the return of Mohammed Shami to the squad. Shami, who was the most successful bowler in the 2023 World Cup with 24 wickets, recently made a comeback to international cricket after a long gap. “We wanted Shami back in the team, and it’s great to see him in India colors again. His experience and ability to take wickets will be crucial for us,” Rohit said.
With Jasprit Bumrah sidelined due to injury, Shami’s role becomes even more critical. “Shami has done the job for us so many times over the years. We hope he finds his rhythm early in the tournament and helps the team,” Rohit added.
Conclusion
As India gears up for the Champions Trophy, the focus will be on collective contributions from the top-order batsmen and a disciplined bowling attack. With Rohit Sharma leading the charge and key players like Gill, Kohli, and Shami in form, India will aim to start their campaign on a high note against Bangladesh.