Muttiah Muralitharan commended Rohit Sharma’s outstanding ODI World Cup display, suggesting Rohit could pursue another World Cup if he prioritizes fitness like Virat Kohli.
Muttiah Muralitharan, the bowling legend, believes Rohit Sharma, despite being 36, showcased exceptional form in the recent ODI World Cup, leading India to the finals. Emphasizing Rohit’s incredible strike rates and consistent performances, Muralitharan suggested that with enhanced fitness akin to Virat Kohli, Rohit could aim for another World Cup appearance.
While Rohit’s desire to grasp the coveted trophy remains, Muralitharan highlighted his pivotal role in India’s successful starts, amassing 597 runs in 11 matches. Expressing optimism, the Sri Lankan maestro hinted at Rohit’s potential for future World Cups.
“You look at his ODI World Cup performance. The starts he gave, the kind of strike rates he batted at. He never failed in the tournament. And he’s only 36, that’s young. He can play another World Cup if he pushes his fitness like Virat,” Muralitharan said when speaking on Jio Cinema.
Muralitharan also supported Rohit’s T20I aspirations, highlighting his impressive strike rates in the ODI World Cup as suitable for T20 cricket. He criticized premature decisions favoring younger players, urging to let fit and performing individuals continue.
“Why are people taking such harsh calls that it is the right time to go and bring youngsters? Until they are fit and performing, let them play. Rohit batted with a strike rate of 130 in ODIs, which is not bad for T20. He’s an experienced player. You just have to work harder on your fitness after 35. If the desire is there, he’ll play. I think he’ll definitely play another World Cup. It’s on his mind,” he said.
Muralitharan further cited R. Ashwin’s theory on T20 spin, stating the essence remains unchanged. Success for spinners hinges on mastering both sides’ spin, alongside variations in pace and exploiting pitch dynamics. Assurance in abilities, according to him, facilitates the rest of the performance in T20 cricket.
Last Updated on November 25, 2023
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