Rohit Sharma Explains Axar Patel’s Promotion

Rohit Sharma stated on Thursday that Team India has no specific targets ahead of the Champions Trophy but aims to maintain consistency. Just as they did in the first ODI against England in Nagpur. Despite a brief stumble in their 249-run chase, slipping from 221/3 to 235/6. India delivered an almost flawless performance, securing a four-wicket victory and a 1-0 series lead. “There’s nothing particular we are focusing on. As a team, we just want to keep doing the right things consistently,” Rohit said in his post-match interview. Axar Patel, who was promoted up the batting order, also shared his thoughts on the decision. “I was ready for the challenge and happy to contribute. The team management wanted a left-right combination in the middle, and I was prepared to take on the role,”.

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Rohit Sharma on India’s Performance and Axar Patel’s Crucial Knock

Rohit Sharma emphasized the importance of covering all aspects of the game, including batting and bowling, to ensure a well-rounded performance. “We want to tick every box and execute our plans effectively. While we managed to do that today, losing wickets towards the end was something we could have avoided,” he said. However, he acknowledged that aggressive intent sometimes leads to such situations.

Reflecting on India’s return to ODI cricket after six months, Rohit expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance. “It was crucial for us to regroup quickly and understand our roles. Unlike shorter formats, ODIs give you time to recover even if things don’t go as planned. We managed to pull things back well, and credit goes to the bowlers for their disciplined effort,” he added.

Rohit also lauded Axar Patel for his crucial 52 off 47 balls after being promoted to No. 5. “Axar played a brilliant knock under pressure. His ability to adapt and contribute in a key moment helped stabilize the innings,” he said.

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Axar’s Promotion, Gill’s Approach & Buttler’s Take on England’s Loss

Rohit Sharma explained the decision to send Axar Patel up the order, highlighting the need for a left-hander against England’s spinners. “We wanted a lefty in the middle since their spinners would target right-handers. Axar has improved significantly as a batter over the years, and he proved it again today. At a crucial stage, he and Gill built a much-needed partnership,” he said.

Shubman Gill, who anchored India’s chase with a crucial 87, emphasized the importance of staying positive despite early setbacks. “There was some movement for the pacers with the new ball, so my focus was on maintaining good intent and playing proper cricketing shots,” he shared.

Meanwhile, England skipper Jos Buttler reflected on their batting collapse, admitting that losing wickets in clusters cost them again. “We started well in the powerplay but kept losing wickets. Another 40-50 runs would have made a big difference, especially with how the pitch behaved later,” he said.