XtraTime Web Desk: Rohit Sharma knew that the conditions were “perfect” for batting in his 100th T20 International and all he had to do was to ‘stay still and tonk the ball”.
Cyclone ‘Maha’ threat was looming large on Rajkot but it was Indian cricket’s ‘Hit-Man’, who struck like tornado during his 85-run knock off 43 balls as India levelled the three-match T20I series against Bangladesh with a eight-wicket victory in the second game.
“All these years, I’ve just tried to do my best with the bat in hand. I knew conditions were perfect. So all I wanted to do was stay still and “tonk” the ball. The year 2019 has been very good so far. Just want to finish it off on a good note,” said the stand-in captain, who was also adjudged ‘Man of the Match’.
“I knew that Rajkot is a good track and it will be difficult for the bowlers in the second innings. We took advantage of that and had a great powerplay. After that, it was all about going on.”
However the skipper was all praise for his spinners Washington Sundar and Yuzvendra Chahal, who put brakes on Bangladesh restricting them to 153 for 6 on a placid Rajkot track.
“Both Washington and Chahal understand their bowling really well. More importantly, they analyse and have conversations on where they can improve. Chahal has bowled in difficult situations and has somehow brought the team to the top,” said Rohit.
“It’s given him confidence. Washington has been our new-ball bowler, but today, I wanted to keep his three overs at the back. I’m an emotional guy. We were sloppy in the field, have to accept that. But focus is always on getting the job done,” he said.