Skipper reflects on India’s dominant 142-run win over England and their commitment to free-flowing cricket
Ahmedabad (Gujarat), February 13:
Following India’s emphatic 142-run victory over England in the third ODI, skipper Rohit Sharma emphasized that the team will continue playing fearless, free-flowing cricket, a philosophy that started during the 2023 ODI World Cup at home.
The victory at Narendra Modi Stadium not only secured a 3-0 series whitewash for India but also marked their first ODI series win under new head coach Gautam Gambhir.
Rohit Sharma: “We Want to Continue Playing with Freedom”
Speaking at the post-match presentation, Rohit Sharma expressed his satisfaction with the series and praised the team’s approach.
“Very pleased with the way the series went. We knew there would be challenges. I mean, there is nothing I could have done about that (the ball that got me out today). Credit to the bowler. He is there to get you out, and you are there as a batter to challenge that. Just nicked the ball, second ball I was facing, and could not have done anything about that,” Rohit said.
He further stressed that India will stick to their aggressive mindset, regardless of occasional failures.
“I do not see anything wrong we did this series. Obviously, there are certain things we are looking at (to improve), but I am not going to stand here and explain those. It is our job to maintain consistency within the squad, and our communication is clear,” he added.
Reflecting on India’s dominant batting performance, Rohit credited the team’s attacking mindset.
“Very happy with the score (at the break). There is a bit of freedom in the squad to go out there and play the way you want. The World Cup was a perfect example of that, and we want to continue to do that. There will be times it will not fall in place, but that is okay,” Rohit stated.
India’s Batting Dominates Again
After England won the toss and opted to bowl first, India posted an imposing total of 356/8 in 50 overs, thanks to:
- Shubman Gill’s brilliant 112-run knock
- Half-centuries from Virat Kohli (52) and Shreyas Iyer (78)
- KL Rahul’s quickfire 40 off 29 balls
England’s Adil Rashid was the standout bowler, taking 4/64 in his 10 overs, while Mark Wood picked up 2/45.
England Collapse in the Chase
Chasing 357, England had promising starts but failed to capitalize:
- Ben Duckett (34) and Phil Salt (23) put up a 60-run opening stand
- Tom Banton (38) and Joe Root (24) added 46 runs for the third wicket
- The rest of the batting collapsed, with England all out for 214 in just 34.2 overs
India’s bowling attack sealed a commanding 142-run win, completing a 3-0 series sweep over England.