Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill have aggressively dismantled Pakistan’s bowling attack, each securing half-centuries, while their opening partnership has cruised beyond the 100-run mark.
In the Super Four clash of the Asia Cup 2023, held at Colombo’s R. Premadasa Cricket Stadium on Sunday, September 10, a stellar performance was put up by India’s dynamic opening pair, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill. Pakistan’s decision to field first after winning the toss put them on the defensive, as Rohit marked a historic milestone by becoming the first batsman to dispatch Shaheen Afridi for a six in the very first over of an ODI innings.
Rohit Sharma, initially slow in the powerplay, gained momentum and hammered Shadab Khan for a formidable 19 runs in a single over. He achieved his half-century in a brisk 42 balls, marking his 50th fifty in ODI cricket before eventually falling for 56 to Khan’s delivery.
Gill continued his scintillating form, notching up his second consecutive ODI half-century alongside the formidable Rohit, as they dismantled Pakistan’s potent pace attack. He showcased his dominance, reaching his fifty in a mere 37 deliveries.
Within the initial 14 overs, their partnership surged past the 100-run mark.
6️⃣, 6️⃣, 4️⃣#TeamIndia openers on the charge! 💥@ImRo45 & @ShubmanGill are in exceptional touch, bringing up a terrific 💯 stand!
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) September 10, 2023
Tune-in to #AsiaCupOnStar, LIVE NOW on Star Sports Network#INDvPAK #Cricket pic.twitter.com/wV7xJQVZQF
Shaheen Afridi struggled with expensive deliveries, while Naseem Shah found an unplayable groove in his second and third overs. Rohit and Gill not only maintained their wickets but also disrupted Pakistan’s pacers with their aggressive approach, establishing India’s dominance in the initial 10 overs of the match.
This remarkable feat has sent social media platforms, including ‘X’ (formerly Twitter), into a frenzy as fans passionately shared their reactions.
The previous encounter between the two teams promised a thrilling contest as India staged a remarkable comeback while batting first, but rain in Pallekele thwarted Pakistan’s chase. This time, organizers have taken every precaution, even scheduling a reserve day for this Super Four match, yet the looming threat of rain could still disrupt proceedings, although the day currently dawns bright and sunny in Colombo.
Last Updated on September 10, 2023
Senior Sports Copywriter
