ODI World Cup 2023: Rohit Sharma Speaks On India's Bowling Attack After Announcing WC Squad, Says 'We Would Have Ideally Wanted An Off Spinner But...'

India skipper, Rohit Sharma spoke on India’s bowling attack in the ODI World Cup 2023 after announcing the squad on Tuesday (September 5th) and said that the team was initially looking for an off-spinner to have good team balance.

While speaking at the press conference, Rohit Sharma said that there were discussions during the team selection regarding Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel since both players can take the ball away.

The Men in Blue skipper added that the fast bowlers bowl more in the 50-over format and that the team is happy with the bowling attack.

“Clearly there were discussions as both Jadeja and Axar took the ball away. We would have ideally wanted an off-spinner but this gives us the best balance. The Pacers bowl more in ODIs anyway. We’re happy with the bowlers we have,” the 36-year-old skipper said.

Even if you don’t start well, you have the time to make a comeback: Rohit Sharma

Rohit Sharma said that the format is different in the ODI World Cup 2023 and that the Men in Blues have already played such a format where a team plays nine league games.

The India skipper revealed that this format helps a team to settle down in the tournament. He also added that in this league if a team loses at first in this format, they can overcome in the later half.

“It’s different, especially the format, where you play nine league games, semis and finals, that is 11 games. We played that format in the World Cup in 2019, and there’s always a chance for you to make a comeback.

“We saw last time around, how England made a comeback to the semis and the finals after losing their way early. It gives you more time to think about strategy and what you’re going to execute as a team.

“T20 format is different where you have less time. We had to beat Pakistan and SA to qualify for the semifinals. Here, even if you don’t start well, you have the time to make a comeback. It does give you a little more breathing space,” Rohit Sharma said.

India will start their ODI World Cup 2023 campaign against Australia on October 8th at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Meanwhile, the most awaited match of the tournament will take place on October 14th when the Men in Blue will take on Pakistan at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.