Rohit Sharma delivered a statement innings in Cuttack on Sunday, silencing critics with a commanding century. His knock powered India to a resounding nine-wicket victory over England. Under pressure due to recent low scores, the Indian skipper responded with a 90-ball masterclass. He smashed 12 fours and seven sixes, reaching his 32nd ODI hundred. His innings not only sealed the series for India but also proved his ability to perform under pressure.
At the post-match presentation, Rohit reflected on his approach. “I loved being on the field, contributing to the team’s score. With the series on the line, I broke my game into phases and focused on each passage of play,” he explained.
He highlighted the need for adaptability in ODIs. “It’s longer than T20s but shorter than Test cricket, so I structured my innings accordingly. The goal was to bat deep and take control,” he added.
England’s bowlers tested him with tight, stump-to-stump lines and body-targeting deliveries. Rohit, however, remained untroubled. “On black-soil pitches, the ball skids on. The key was to show the full face of the bat early and find the gaps,” he said.
He also praised his batting partners, especially Shubman Gill. “Gill was outstanding, and Shreyas matched his brilliance. Batting with Gill is enjoyable—he’s a natural stroke-maker who thrives under pressure,” Rohit noted.
India’s bowling effort also impressed him. He stressed the importance of controlling the middle overs. “That’s when the match can tilt. If you squeeze the opposition there, the death overs take care of themselves. We executed this plan well in Nagpur and repeated it today,” he said.
With the ICC Champions Trophy approaching, Rohit remains focused on overall growth. “It’s about constant improvement, both as individuals and as a team. If everyone understands their role and delivers, there’s little to worry about,” he remarked.
Shubman Gill, who scored a fluent 60 and shared a 136-run stand with Rohit, called the knock a masterclass. “He made batting look effortless. We’ve seen him dominate in ODIs, and today was another example,” Gill said.
Speaking about the pitch, Gill noted that while some deliveries kept low, conditions favored stroke play. “The plan was simple—play the ball on its merit and capitalize on scoring opportunities,” he concluded.
With the series secured, India has reaffirmed its dominance. The team has also sent a strong message ahead of the global tournament next month.
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