Irfan Pathan thinks that of all the World Cup leaders, Rohit Sharma has taken the most aggressive stance.
India is presently in first place on the points table, ahead of New Zealand on net run rate, after winning their first three matches of the competition. Next up for them is a match against Bangladesh on Thursday, October 19 in Pune.
When questioned during a debate on Star Sports, about Rohit Sharma being seen defending in the nets; something he hasn’t done during games, Pathan replied:
“This is a backfoot punch for four. It is his timing. He is in very good form. The way he is leaving deliveries, it means he is not just coming and playing carelessly in the nets, and just playing the big shots.”
“He is going with full confidence into the practice but is still respecting the balls that need to be respected, but Rohit Sharma has adopted the most aggressive approach among all captains in this World Cup, which is not easy.”
Irfan Pathan
Sharma scored 131 runs off 84 balls in India’s second game against Afghanistan after being removed for a duck in their tournament opener against Australia. He then scored 86 runs in 63 balls for the Men in Blue against Pakistan in their most recent match.
Irfan Pathan can’t stop praising Rohit Sharma
Irfan Pathan believes Rohit Sharma is deserving of praise. He said,
“We won’t get tired of praising him because he deserves praise considering the responsibility he has shouldered. He is playing shots extremely easily. You might see defensive as well as big shots in practice, but he will keep his attacking approach in the match.”
Irfan Pathan
The former cricketer-turned-commentator said that all of the Indian players were collected and at ease. He clarified:
“All batters and bowlers you saw in practice, they were looking in great control when they were practicing and I was seeing them on the ground as well. They were relaxed and played foot volleyball for half an hour before the Pakistan match.”
Irfan Pathan
According to the criterion, the players are performing the fielding drills and exerting themselves to the best of their abilities, according to Irfan Pathan. He continued by noting that if Rohit keeps playing the way he is, everyone will continue to compliment him.