Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali showered praise on Indian captain Rohit Sharma for his explosive knock in the second ODI against England. Rohit, who was under immense pressure following a prolonged lean phase, silenced his critics with a stunning 119 off 90 balls, smashing 12 fours and seven sixes.
Basit was particularly impressed with Rohit’s fearless approach in ODIs, highlighting that the Indian skipper does not play with a fear of failure.
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“What is the worst thing that can happen? He will get out for a duck. But he should play his natural game like he did in the 2023 ODI World Cup and sidelined the opposition in the first 10 overs,” Basit remarked on his YouTube channel.
The former cricketer emphasised that Rohit’s knock reaffirmed the old adage that class is permanent.
“He silenced everyone with his performance. We say this very often that form is temporary, class is permanent. He showed the same,” he added.
With this victory, Team India has taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series, a significant boost ahead of the Champions Trophy.
“All eyes will be on India after the match (Cuttack ODI), because of the way they chased down the 304-run target,” Basit said.
Despite England’s series defeat, Basit suggested that playing against India has only benefited them, as they gained valuable experience on subcontinental pitches similar to those in Pakistan, where the Champions Trophy will be held.
“India won the series, but even if they whitewash, England have only gained from this series. They haven’t lost anything. Their batters read the pitches. They have benefited from playing a series against a top-class team. They will benefit from this in the Champions Trophy. England are still one of my semi-finalists,” he added.