Last Update on: September 26th, 2023 at 07:32 pm
Indian captain Rohit Sharma talked about the combination his side might play in the third ODI against Australia. He revealed that some players in their squad are sick and they have only 13 players to pick from for the dead rubber in Rajkot.
Rohit Sharma addressed the press conference ahead of the third ODI against Australia, to be played on Wednesday (27th September). He revealed that Shubman Gill, Hardik Pandya, and Mohammed Shami won’t be part of the team and also confirmed that Axar Patel is not fit yet. Speaking to reporters, he added:
“We have got a lot of players who are sick, unavailable, some have gone home for personal reasons and some are rested. So 13 players are available. Gill, Hardik, and Shami aren’t playing. Axar is unavailable for this game. We have got 13 players to choose from, so there’s a lot of uncertainty in the team.”
The likes of Shubman Gill, Hardik Pandya, Shardul Thakur, and Mohammed Shami didn’t travel with the team to Rajkot. It is assumed that apart from Pandya, others might have been rested due to workload management. The all-rounder didn’t play the first two games and was expected to be part of the last game. However, it’s likely that he’s the one who’s sick.
Rohit Sharma also admitted that he’s delighted with the way his team has performed in the last 10 games. He also lauded Ravichandran Ashwin for his heroics in the first two ODIs, stating that it’s a good sign for the team as backup options are also in form. He added:
“Very happy with the last ten ODIs we have played. Bowlers picking wickets, batters getting important runs. We cannot take away the class and experience that Ashwin has. He bowled really well and has got some variations up his sleeve. In case there is a chance, it works well for us because the backups are ready.”
Ravichandran Ashwin was included in the team for the ODI series against Australia. The off-spinner has been magnificent with the ball in the two games. He picked one wicket in first and was economical. In the second ODI, he oozed his class and picked three wickets that helped his team win.
It’s a positive to be the No.1 going into the World Cup – Rohit Sharma
India are currently ranked No.1 in all three formats of the game. After their two wins over Australia, they are certain to enter ICC World Cup 2023 as the top team. Rohit Sharma said although it’s positive for the team, they have to stay in present. He added:
“It’s a positive to be the No.1 going into the World Cup but it doesn’t matter at the end of the day. We have to stay at present and play some good cricket. Don’t think anyone is worried about rankings at this point. We have bigger things to worry about.”
With no Shubman Gill around, it is learned that Rohit Sharma will open with Ishan Kishan. The reports also suggested that India might utilize the services of local first-class players, who are part of the Saurashtra team, to chip in the field if needed as they have only 13 players in the squad.
