Former England captain Nasser Hussain hailed Rohit Sharma as the unsung hero, crediting his aggressive batting and leadership that anchored India’s path to the 2023 Cricket World Cup final.
Virat Kohli’s splendid century, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar’s ODI ton record, and Mohammad Shami’s seven-wicket haul powered India to a convincing 70-run triumph over New Zealand on November 15th, securing a berth in the World Cup final. While Kohli and Shami shone brightly, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma’s pivotal role in initiating a remarkable victory earned praise from former England captain Nasser Hussain.
Rohit’s explosive innings of 47 off 29 deliveries, with four boundaries and as many sixes, laid a strong foundation. His partnership with Shubman Gill of 71 runs set a solid start for India before Rohit’s dismissal by Tim Southee. Hussain acknowledged Rohit as the unsung hero, crediting his impactful start that significantly contributed to India’s triumph at Wankhede Stadium.
“The headlines tomorrow will be about Kohli, about Shreyas, about Shami. But the genuine hero of this Indian side, the man who has changed the culture, is Rohit Sharma,” Nasser Hussain said when speaking toSky Sports Cricket.
“It’s one thing coming in the group stage, but can you do it again, can you play fearless cricket in a semi-final? Their skipper went out there and showed everyone, showed his dressing room that they’re going to carry on in exactly the same way,” he added.
Nasser Hussain talking about the importance of Rohit Sharma.
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) November 15, 2023
– Captain, Leader, Legend 🇮🇳pic.twitter.com/2L7dmlYFSf
After Rohit Sharma’s exit, Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer orchestrated a formidable 163-run partnership, propelling India to a commanding 397. New Zealand’s shaky start, losing their openers early with just 39 runs, hindered their chase. Mohammad Shami’s remarkable 7/57 in 9.5 overs was instrumental as the Kiwis fell short by 70 runs.
Last Updated on November 16, 2023
Senior Sports Copywriter