They can struggle in recent times, but the form of captain Rohit Sharma and his long -time colleague Virat Kohli will be important for India's success in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, said former batsman Saresh Raina on Tuesday. The Champions Trophy begins in Pakistan from February 19 and concluded on March 9, but India will play all its matches according to the hybrid model agreement signed by the parties concerned in Dubai. Speaking to Broadcaster Star Sports, Raina said, “Rohit Sharma's strike rate has improved significantly after the ODI World Cup in 2023. Since then, he has scored at a strike rate of 119-120, so He has become one of the best ODI batsmen.
“For Rohit and Virat, I would say that when you have a strong record of previous performances, it gives you great confidence. They complement each other well, and both have to score big runs. Skills. If they perform well, the Champions Trophy campaign will benefit greatly.
Speaking about the combination of spin department and team, Raina said, “I think (Ravindra) Jadeja will definitely play in Odis due to his effectiveness. Kuldeep (Yadav) has not played a match since his injury. Is, but we also have Exer Patel, who is continuously performing well.
“Dubai will offer some seam movement in Dubai, but the spin will also play a role. That is why Kuldeep, Exer, and Jadeja should be in the top form. The choice of combining Rohit's team will be important.” Prior to the Champions Trophy, India is also playing an ODE series of three matches at home against England, and Raina believed that it would help Kohli and Rohit's choice to get some valuable sports time before the mega event .
“When it comes to white-ball cricket, Virat knows how to switch and switch off. He has scored the most runs against England, so his energy will be automatically at a different level. Three will be automatically at a different level. Odis will be played in Nagpur, Ahmedabad, and Cuttack-all are high scoring venue, “Raina said about Kohli who has struggled for a run in the test series in Australia.
Sharing his views on the upcoming series, Raina said that Rohit should continue to leave from Gate-Go after bowlers as it has also given him success in the last one-day World Cup in 2023.
Speaking to Rohit on his expectations, Raina said, “I think Rohit should play aggressively. You saw how he batted in the ODI World Cup – he was also attacking in the finals. So, I believe me It is that his approach will remain the same.
“The important question is who will open with him – will it be Shubman (Gill)? I remember, whenever they play together, they maintain an aggressive intentions.” Raina also appreciated Rohit's captaincy.
“Rohit Sharma is an attacker captain. The way he uses his bowlers is commendable – bringing in important moments in Mohammed Shami and relying strategically on spinners.
“When Rohit scores, it is also reflected in his captaincy. It can be his last ICC Trophy as captain, and if he wins, he will become the first Indian player to win four ICC trophy.
“He has already won the T20 World Cup, and securing the Champions Trophy will be a remarkable achievement. He will be inspired to do so, but the scoring run will be important for him.”
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