World Cup 2023: Rohit Sharma's Key Update On Hardik Pandya's Injury Amidst Virat Kohli's Brilliant Strategy In India's Triumph
After India secured a seven-wicket victory against Bangladesh in their ICC Cricket World Cup match on Thursday, captain Rohit Sharma provided an update on the condition of all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who sustained an ankle injury during his bowling spell.
In the triumphant performance, Jasprit Bumrah, captain Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Virat Kohli not only set new records but also captivated the audience. Nonetheless, the 'Men in Blue' couldn't shake off concerns regarding Pandya's fitness following his ankle twist.
Rohit remarked in the post-match presentation, "It was a good win. Something that we were looking forward to. We did not start well but we pulled it back well in the middle stages and at the back end as well (on the bowling and the fielding). The last three games we have played, our fielding has been superb. We continued that today. It is something that is in your control. You try and put in as much effort as you can. Bowlers were smart enough to understand what sort of lines and lengths were needed."
"He (Jadeja) was brilliant with the ball and took a brilliant catch. But a hundred (by Virat) is a hundred - you cannot beat that. (On the fielding medals players receive after each game) We have something going on in the group. Lifts everyone up. Guys who end up with the most medals, there is something special for them."
"He (Pandya) pulled up a bit sore. There is no major damage, that is good for us. But obviously, with an injury like that, we have to assess every day and we will do whatever is required. (Game against NZ) Every game is a big game. (On the support) All of us in the squad have gone through such pressure - crowds coming in big numbers. It is special for us. The crowd has not disappointed us and I am pretty sure it is going to get bigger and louder moving forward," concluded Rohit.
In the match, Bangladesh chose to bat first, leading to a commendable 91-run opening partnership between Tanzid Hasan, who scored 51 runs in 43 deliveries, including four boundaries and three sixes, and Litton Das, who notched up 66 runs in 82 balls, embellished with seven fours.
Consequently, Bangladesh faced regular setbacks in the form of losing wickets at consistent intervals. However, crucial contributions were made by Mahmudullah, scoring 46 runs in 36 balls, inclusive of three fours and three sixes, and wicketkeeper-batter Mushfiqur Rahim, who added 38 runs in 46 balls, comprising a four and a six. Their efforts enabled Bangladesh to reach a total of 256/8 in their allocated 50 overs.
Ravindra Jadeja, with figures of 2/38, and Jasprit Bumrah, registering 2/41, emerged as the standout performers among the Indian bowlers. Mohammed Siraj also claimed two crucial wickets, while Kuldeep Yadav and Shardul Thakur chipped in with one wicket each.
During the pursuit of the target of 257, captain Rohit Sharma's aggressive 48 off 40 balls, featuring seven fours and two sixes, along with Shubman Gill's composed 53 off 55 balls, comprising five fours and two sixes, significantly influenced the match outcome.
Additionally, Virat Kohli's century and his partnership with KL Rahul, who remained unbeaten at 34, not only added a delightful touch of entertainment with their energetic running between the wickets but also served as the icing on the cake for India.
Mehidy Hasan Miraz demonstrated his skill with the ball, emerging as the top performer among the Bangladesh bowlers, claiming two crucial wickets during the match.
With an impressive record of four wins in as many matches, India currently holds the second position in the points table, accumulating a total of eight points. New Zealand currently occupies the top spot, primarily due to their superior net run rate. Meanwhile, Bangladesh finds themselves in the seventh position with one victory and three losses under their belt.
Virat Kohli was honored with the title of 'Man of the Match' for his outstanding century performance.