Skipper Rohit Sharma Reveals India’s ‘Different’ Strategy for 2023 ODI World Cup

India suffered a crushing defeat at the hands of Australia in the World Test Championship final, losing by a margin of 209 runs. The match, held at The Oval, saw India’s batsmen struggle to chase down a massive target of 444. Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland were instrumental in dismantling India’s batting lineup, taking four and three wickets respectively. This loss extended India’s wait for an ICC trophy, with their last victory coming in the 2013 Champions Trophy under the captaincy of MS Dhoni.

Addressing the media after the match, skipper Rohit Sharma expressed the team’s determination to adopt a different mindset and approach in the upcoming ODI World Cup, scheduled to be held in India later this year. Rohit emphasized the need to play with freedom and not be burdened by the pressure of winning every match. He acknowledged that the team had previously approached matches and events with a sense of importance, resulting in disappointment. Rohit emphasized the importance of thinking differently and implementing new strategies to achieve success in the ODI World Cup.

In the Test match against Australia, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill provided a promising start with a 40-run opening partnership. However, Australia’s bowling attack dominated India’s batting order, leading to their collapse before even reaching lunch on the fifth day.

Rohit defended the team’s aggressive approach, stating that their intention was to apply pressure on the opposition by playing attacking cricket. He addressed the criticism of lapses in concentration, clarifying that the team’s objective was to play in a unique manner and strive for different results. The team’s focus remains on breaking their ICC trophy drought by playing in a distinctive way.

Australia’s victory in the World Test Championship final secured the only major men’s cricket title that had previously eluded them. The team, led by Pat Cummins, now looks forward to the upcoming Ashes Test against England with high spirits. On the other hand, India, having been defeated by New Zealand in the inaugural 2021 WTC final, continues its decade-long quest for global silverware.