Rohit Sharma reflects on India’s batting unit after dominant win over Bangladesh in warm-up match, open to changes

India captain Rohit Sharma opened up about the batting unit and kept the door open for changes after a 60-run win over Bangladesh in the warm-up match ahead of the T20 World Cup. Opener Yashasvi Jaiswal and Virat Kohli didn’t play a part in the match as Sanju Samson opened alongside the skipper. Rishabh Pant was promoted in the batting unit and the southpaw responded with a quick 53 off 32 balls.

While Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya looked in great shape and touch, Shivam Dube failed to express. After the match, Rohit stated that he was happy with the performance and added that the team management is yet to nail down the final playing XI. He also noted the importance of getting used to the conditions as the surface at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium changed its nature in the second innings of the warm-up game.

“Quite happy with how things went, got what we wanted with the game. Important to get used to the conditions. New venue, new ground and drop-in pitch,” Sharma said in the post-match presentation.

Also Read - Rohit Sharma requests New York police to go easy on his die hard fan after he invades pitch

The 37-year-old was impressed with Rishabh’s dynamic performance at number three. However, that isn’t an indication of his position in the T20 World Cup. Rohit remarked that he wanted to give a chance to the middle order batters, which might have made room for Rishabh at number three. 

“Just to give him (Rishabh) an opportunity. We have not nailed the batting line-up yet, we wanted most guys to get a hit in the middle,” the skipper mentioned. 

Arshdeep has shown us he has the skills upfront and also the backend: Rohit

Pacer Arshdeep Singh had a terrific game against Bangladesh as he picked up two wickets, giving away 12 runs in his three overs. The youngster picked up wickets with the new ball and can also deliver in the death overs, which is an important skill-set as per the skipper. He stated that all the 15 players are good enough to make it into the playing XI but they would pick the team based on the condition.

“He (Arshdeep) has shown us he has the skills upfront and also the backend, he has a very good skill set. We have got a good 15 players here, just need to nail down the conditions and pick the best players,” said Rohit.