Rohit Sharma Confirms Focus on Batting, Won’t Bowl in ODI Series Against Sri Lanka

News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/2nd August 2024

India’s cricket captain Rohit Sharma, back at the helm for the ODI series against Sri Lanka, has addressed speculation about his potential role as a bowler in the series. During a recent toss at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Rohit was questioned about the possibility of him bowling in the series, akin to the unexpected bowling performance by Suryakumar Yadav in the T20Is. Rohit responded with a light-hearted chuckle, affirming that his primary focus would remain on batting.

Rohit Sharma, who recently made his return to the ODI squad, made it clear that while he appreciates the versatility demonstrated by players like Suryakumar Yadav, his intention for the series is to concentrate on his batting prowess. He emphasized that the team has a well-rounded bowling attack and does not require his services in this department. “Not really (on whether I will bowl), I will focus on my batting. We have enough bowlers in the squad that can roll their arm over,” Rohit remarked after losing the toss to Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka, who chose to bat first.

The spotlight on Suryakumar Yadav’s unexpected bowling contribution came after his crucial role in the final T20I against Sri Lanka. During a tense last over where Sri Lanka needed only six runs to win, Suryakumar, in a surprising move, took up the ball himself. His decision proved instrumental in leading India to a victory, with the match ending in a Super Over, showcasing his unique tactical approach.

As Rohit Sharma re-joins the squad, the team is under the leadership of both him and head coach Gautam Gambhir. Rohit’s return has ushered in several changes in the ODI squad, including the reintroduction of key players such as Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, and Shreyas Iyer, alongside Kuldeep Yadav. Rohit acknowledged the positive changes and the balanced squad, highlighting the team’s readiness to perform well. “Good pitch. We have played a lot of cricket here and know the conditions. There has been a lot of changes; I am back, so is Virat, KL and Shreyas Iyer. Kuldeep also comes back in. Dube is also playing. We have a pretty decent balance,” Rohit explained.

The Indian ODI team, buoyed by their recent success in the T20 World Cup, is looking to replicate that winning form in the 50-over format. Despite not clinching the World Cup title, the team has maintained a positive outlook and created an environment that encourages players to perform with freedom.

As the ODI series unfolds, fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how the team adapts to the new dynamics and how the changes influence their performance against Sri Lanka. Rohit Sharma’s decision to focus on his batting while trusting his bowlers underscores the strategic depth within the Indian squad as they aim for success in the series.