ICC World Cup 2023: Maheesh Theekshana Reveals His World Cup Ambitions

Sri Lanka spinner Maheesh Theekshana opened up about the challenges of bowling against Indian batters Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the upcoming ODI World Cup. Maheesh Theekshana highlighted that he will aim to dismiss Virat Kohli in the match against India.

India will host the upcoming edition of the ODI World Cup between October 5 and November 19. The Rohit Sharma-led team will take on Sri Lanka in the group stage match of the marquee tournament at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday, November 2.

My Plan Always Is To Give Them A Single – Maheesh Theekshana

In a conversation with Boria Majumdar, Maheesh Theekshana revealed his strategy against Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the shorter format of the game.

“The plan is to give singles if I am bowling to such batters in a T20 contest. Because, in a T20 game, no batter wants to get a single and be away from the strike. So my plan always is to give them a single. If you are able to do that, you know that a mistake is round the corner,” Maheesh said.

Need To Pick Up Wickets In The Middle Overs – Maheesh Theekshana

Maheesh Theekshana emphasized the importance of picking wickets in the middle overs to put pressure on the opposition team in the 50-over format.

“Coming to a 50-over contest, it is a very different plan. You need to pick up wickets in the middle overs to be able to put pressure. And now with four fielders out between the 11^th and 40^th overs, you know as a bowler the batter will want to take advantage.”

“That’s when you need to be smart, and back your strengths. If you are able to get wickets and push the opposition back, it gives your team a major advantage.”

“Coming to the India game, I have never got Virat out, so that’s the one wicket I really want to pick.”

Both the Men in Blue and Sri Lanka are participants in the 6-team Asia Cup. They won’t compete against each other in the group stage due to being placed in separate groups. However, there is a possibility of them encountering each other during the Super Four stage of the tournament.

Also read: “I Think It Is Our Time To Do Our Best And Try And Win The World Cup” – Maheesh Theekshana Seeks Inspiration From 1996 World Cup Campaign