IND Vs NZ: Shaheen Shah Afridi Doesn't Matter To Rohit Sharma- Former India Batter Makes Sensational Remark

Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has highlighted the pivotal role of Rohit Sharma in India’s upcoming clash against New Zealand in the ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. In a segment on Star Sports, Kaif underlined the significance of Rohit Sharma’s current form, his aggressive approach, and his ability to set the tempo for the team from the outset.

Kaif pointed out that Rohit Sharma’s exceptional form makes him the most crucial player for India in the match against New Zealand. Sharma, known for his elegant stroke play, has been in spectacular form, consistently delivering strong performances with the bat. His ability to execute pull shots and powerful drives, combined with his aggressive mindset, sets him apart as a dominant force in the early stages of the game.

One aspect that Kaif particularly highlighted was Sharma’s fearless approach in the opening overs. Even when facing formidable bowlers like Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sharma’s fearless batting remains undeterred.

He is known for setting the template and establishing the tone of the game, sending a clear message that he is the captain of the team and the leader of the batting unit. Kaif noted that Sharma’s tendency to attack from the very first ball, often opening the innings with a boundary, is a testament to his unwavering confidence.

He stated, “I will take the name of Rohit Sharma because he is in good form, he has the ability to play pull shots, and drives and is playing fast, he is dominating in the beginning. Nowadays I see that he is hitting a four on the very first ball, even if it is Shaheen Shah Afridi, it does not matter to him. He sets the template, sets the tone of the game that I am the captain of the team, I am the leader, and I will hit whatever shots I have from the first over.”

The former cricketer emphasized the importance of Sharma’s role in providing momentum to the Indian team. Against New Zealand, a team renowned for its formidable bowling attack, featuring talents like Trent Boult, Henry, and Ferguson, Sharma’s early aggression can be a game-changer. Kaif believes that if Sharma can launch an early onslaught and accumulate a strong tally, even if not a century, it will give India the much-needed impetus to take control of the match.

“Then of course Virat Kohli’s form is going on, Gill has also come, his form has also come, and there are enough batsmen, so I think I will take the name of Rohit Sharma. If he goes well in the beginning, I am not talking about a hundred, if he scores even fifty runs well in the beginning then India gets momentum, especially against New Zealand because their bowling is good, there is Trent Boult, Henry, and Ferguson. If Rohit attacks in the beginning then perhaps their bowlers will get stuck here a bit,” he concluded.

Watch: Mohammed Kaif Praising Rohit Sharma’s Aggressive Approach As An Opener

.@mohammadkaif says #Hitman‘s fast start is key. @virendersehwag says #SKY can replace the void left by #Hardik‘s injury.

We say, it’s going to be a cracker! ?

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— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) October 22, 2023

Rohit Sharma’s partnership with other key players, including Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill, adds further depth to India’s batting lineup. Kaif acknowledged the strong batting roster at India’s disposal, but he singled out Sharma as the key catalyst who can set the stage for a successful encounter against New Zealand.

As the highly anticipated match approaches, all eyes will be on Rohit Sharma, who carries the responsibility of giving India a flying start against a formidable opponent. His ability to dictate the pace of the game and take on the challenging New Zealand bowlers in the initial overs could be a decisive factor in the outcome of the match, making him the linchpin for India’s hopes in the ICC World Cup 2023.