(AFP Photo)
Legendary Australian wicketkeeper-batsman Adam Gilchrist commended India’s captain Rohit Sharma for his outstanding innings against Australia. Rohit’s blistering 92 runs off just 41 deliveries played a crucial role in India’s undefeated streak in the T20 World Cup 2024 and secured their place in the semi-finals.
Following Australia’s defeat, their chances depended on Bangladesh defeating Afghanistan in the subsequent match. However, Afghanistan narrowly clinched the victory, marking their maiden entry into the semi-finals of the competition.
During a discussion on Cricbuzz, Adam Gilchrist showered praise on Rohit Sharma for his magnificent innings, describing it as fearless and asserting that it silenced his critics in the format. Gilchrist also commended Rohit’s impeccable shot selection, particularly highlighting his performance against Australia.
“That’s right. He is making those statements off the field. This is how we play. And on the field, it’s inspiration stuff, it’s great entertainment,” Gilchrist said.
“And question marks around his T20 impact – all the IPL stats and all that — that’s just again a reinforcement of the value of his leadership and the value of a team that is inspired by him. It was a really good stroke selection, knowing where to go to put the bowler off,” the legendary wicketkeeper added.
Adam Gilchrist was renowned for his aggressive batting at the top of the order, winning numerous games for Australia with his bold style of play, including the memorable 2007 ODI World Cup final.
Rohit Sharma’s scintillating innings featured 7 fours and 8 sixes, setting a new record for the most sixes hit by an Indian in a T20 World Cup match.
He reached his fifty in just 19 balls. Despite the early loss of Virat Kohli, Rohit continued to attack from the other end without relenting. His onslaught against Mitchell Starc yielded 29 runs in one over, which established the momentum for the remainder of the innings. Rohit cleared the boundary four times during this remarkable over.
‘He has stated what the process should be’ says Adam Gilchrist on Rohit Sharma
Gilchrist also applauded Rohit Sharma for demonstrating leadership through his performance on the field. He emphasized that Rohit is setting an example for his team by maintaining aggression even when wickets fall at the other end.
“We often hear leaders say, it’s not about the results, it’s about the process. He has stated what the process should be — that is be aggressive at all costs. If you lose your batting partner, no issues, focus on the process — that is be aggressive. That sort of expertise as a leader and the guidance that he is giving his playing XI, they are going with him,” the former Australian opener added.
Indian batters have adopted an aggressive approach in the ongoing T20 World Cup. They have also experimented with their batting order by promoting Rishabh Pant to No. 3 and having Virat Kohli open alongside Rohit Sharma.
India is set to meet defending champions England in the second semi-final of the T20 World Cup 2024 at Providence Stadium, Guyana. The first semi-final will feature Afghanistan against South Africa in Trinidad.
