Indian skipper Rohit Sharma does not want to rely on Virat Kohli to outclass Pakistan at Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York on June 9. Rohit said that Kohli’s experience sets him apart but he wants everyone to chip in.
"I don't want to rely on one individual to win us the game. Everyone needs to chip in. He didn't play the Bangladesh game. He didn't have a great outing in the first game, but we all know he brings in a wealth of experience," Rohit said at the pre-match press conference on June 8.
Kohli departed after scoring a single against Ireland in the run chase. He did not play against Bangladesh in the warm-up game.
Kohli has had an exceptional record against Pakistan. The last time two sides met in Melbourne in T20 World Cup 2022, he scored an unbeaten 82 to lead India to a win in last-ball thriller. The 35-year-old has a total of four half-centuries against Pakistan in T20 World Cups over the years.
Meanwhile, Rohit managed to find form despite a scratchy start against Ireland on a double-paced pitch. He scored 52 runs from 37 balls before getting retired hurt. He was hit on the arm by left-arm pacer Josh Little.
No place for Jaiswal, Pant to continue at no.3
Rohit also confirmed that he will continue to open with Kohli as Rishabh Pant has been doing well at no.3.
"Watched Pant play the first few matches in the IPL and made up my mind. It was about having the right batting position. His counter-attacking skill will be helpful, given we cannot play Yashasvi. He has got an all-round game. Besides the openers, none of the other batting position is fixed, unless it us a Super Over. We want to be flexible," the 36-year-old added.
Pant has been in good form of late. He scored a half-century against Bangladesh in the warm-up game. Against Ireland, he batted at no.3 as well instead of Suryakumar Yadav. He remained unbeaten for 36 runs.
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