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Indian skipper Rohit Sharma does not want to be caught up in the talks around the much-awaited high-voltage clash against Pakistan in their Asia Cup 2023 opener. Rohit revealed that he has said that batters need to have an aggressive approach in the format but they have to take Sri Lankan conditions into account, especially after the low-scoring affair between defending champions Sri Lanka and Shakib Al Hasan’s Bangladesh on August 31.
“I’ve said we need to play aggressively but we need to see the situation and conditions too. Last match will impact our approach. But I will leave it to our experienced batting to take the call as to how to play in these conditions,” Rohit said in the pre-match press conference on September 1.
Rohit is aware of the challenge Pakistan's fast bowlers pose. The 36-year-old said that the batters have prepared for them in the nets and will rely on their experience to tackle them.
“In the nets, we don't have Naseem, Haris and Shaheen,” Rohit laughed while answering a question.
“We do practice with our bowlers. They are quality bowlers. Pakistan have always had good fast bowlers. What is the strength and weaknesses we have seen it. Whatever experience we have for these many years, we have to use it,” he added.
Rohit also emphasised the fact that he has taken more risks in the past few years but he is looking to find a fine balance as well.
“I have played for many years. I have to use that experience in a proper way. In the last 2 years, I have played a different style of cricket. I have taken risks. It has to be a fine balance. I have to get the team in a good position. Whenever I get the chance to get in good rhythm, I will not forsake it. I have to get the balance in that team,” he said.
India will be facing Pakistan in ODIs after a long gap of four years. Their last clash in the format was in ODI World Cup 2019 where India registered a comprehensive win.
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India vs Pakistan, Asia Cup 2023: From Virat's Melbourne miracle to Rohit's Manchester madness, a recap on arch-rivals' recent battles
Asia Cup 2023: Hayden advises Rohit to exercise caution against Shaheen Afridi in India vs Pakistan slugfest
