Rohit Sharma Reveals Why India Opted For Jasprit Bumrah Instead Of Shami

Ahead of the Super Over at Hamilton, Head Coach Ravi Shastri was seen having a word with Virat Kohli. India vice-captain Rohit Sharma revealed the reason behind backing Jasprit Bumrah to bowl the Super Over.

The pace spearhead had a rare off-day as he proved to be expensive. Bumrah conceded 45 runs in his four overs and failed to bag a wicket. He was whacked all over the ground by Kane Williamson, who hit a stunning 48-ball 95 in the game. Post the game, Rohit revealed that the leadership group had a few options up their sleeves.

Rohit Sharma reveals the reason behind opting for Bumrah

Mohammed Shami was a potential contender, having bowled a brilliant final over, where he defended nine runs in one over. Shami bagged the wickets of Williamson and Ross Taylor. On the other hand, Ravindra Jadeja could throw certain accurate darts to keep the Kiwi batters in a shackle. Instead, Kohli went ahead with Bumrah.

Bumrah has been a key: Rohit Sharma

“Super Over you can’t really plan what to do. You have to assess what’s happened on that day,” Rohit told reporters after the end of the match. “And you send your best players. Bumrah has been one of the key players in terms of our bowling. There was no choice but there was little confusion whether to go with Shami or maybe Jadeja because the ball was gripping.”

Bumrah conceded 17 runs but some late hitting by Rohit shadowed his underwhelming numbers. Chasing 18 to win, Rohit slammed two sixes in the last two deliveries of the Super Over to take his side home. India have now won three back to back games and have sealed the series with two games to go. Rohit was adjudged the man of the match for his sublime knock of 65 and the heroics in the Super Over.