Ajinkya Rahane backs Rohit Sharma to bounce back in second ODI while continuing with same aggressive approach

India defeated West Indies by eight wickets in the first ODI at Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram on September 27, 2026, chasing down a target of 296 runs. Rohit Sharma opened the innings and scored 32 off 35 balls, helping India race to 70 without loss in the first 10 overs before attempting to whip Alzarri Joseph for a boundary but miscuing it to deep square leg.

The former India captain was dismissed for 32 in 35 balls, hitting two fours and three sixes. He failed to convert his start into a big score.

Ajinkya Rahane spoke about Rohit's approach and mindset following the opening match, emphasising the veteran opener's confidence and ability to respond to challenges in the second ODI.

"If you bowl the same delivery to Rohit Sharma in the next match, he must be like, 'I will hit it for a six'. He is that confident. I think everyone should enjoy Rohit and Virat's batting. I know fans have different expectations, but as long as they are playing, let them just enjoy," Rahane said on Cricbuzz.

Rahane on Rohit's confidence for the second ODI

Rahane's comments reflected his belief in Rohit's temperament and his capacity to adapt quickly after a brief innings. The 39-year-old Rohit has faced similar situations throughout his career and has consistently demonstrated the ability to bounce back in subsequent matches.

Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli scored fantastic centuries in India's successful chase, with the team completing the run pursuit comfortably. Rohit's early dismissal did not hamper India's progress as the middle order took control of the innings and guided the team to victory. The Men in Blue won the match by eight wickets, chasing down the 296-run target in just 41.4 overs. Kuldeep Yadav won the Player of the Match award for his sensational spell of 4/40 in 10 overs in the first innings.

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The second ODI, which will be played at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati on Wednesday, September 30, will provide Rohit with an immediate opportunity to respond to his first-match dismissal and contribute more substantially to India's batting effort.