Aakash Chopra, former India opener, identified India skipper Rohit Sharma’s ability to deliver match-defining performances as a key positive for India heading into the second IND vs ENG Test in Visakhapatnam. Highlighting Rohit’s track record of steering India to favourable positions, Chopra recalled instances, such as the last Test series against England, where Rohit’s brilliance proved pivotal.
Chopra emphasized Rohit’s proficiency against spin bowling, noting that if the Indian captain fires, it could set the stage for success, allowing other players to contribute effectively. Reflecting on the Vizag Test in 2019, Chopra commended Rohit for rejuvenating his Test career by delivering outstanding performances against South Africa. Opening for the first time, Rohit scored a remarkable 176 and followed it up with a second-inning century, becoming the sixth Indian batter to achieve twin centuries in a match.
“You have got a player called Rohit Sharma who can play a game-changing knock. I remember the last Test series (home series against England) as well. We lost the first match and in the second match, Rohit Sharma single-handedly took India to a position from where you couldn’t have lost.” Chopra said on his YT channel.
Chopra also acknowledged the promising form of Rohit’s opening partner, Yashasvi Jaiswal. Expressing confidence in Jaiswal’s ability to perform well on a pitch conducive to batting, Chopra highlighted Jaiswal’s potential to influence the game swiftly with his aggressive playing style. Despite a mixed performance in the first Test, Chopra expects Jaiswal to bounce back, leveraging the favourable conditions in Visakhapatnam.
“Yashasvi Jaiswal looked very good in the first match. You will back him to come good once again because it is the type of pitch where the ball comes nicely onto the bat. Yashasvi is in good form and the speed at which he plays, he can move the match quickly in your favour.”
