Sanjay Bangar Questions Future of Kohli and Rohit in ODI Team
Bangar's Comments on Kohli and Rohit
Former cricketer Sanjay Bangar has raised concerns regarding the positions of veteran players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the One Day International (ODI) squad. His remarks followed India's recent 2-1 series victory against South Africa, which concluded with a commanding nine-wicket win in the final ODI held in Visakhapatnam. During the match, India successfully chased a target of 271 runs, with Yashasvi Jaiswal achieving his first ODI century, while both Rohit and Kohli contributed with half-centuries.
Praise for India's Batting Performance
On the show 'Cricket Live', Bangar commended the Indian top order for their impressive batting display in the third ODI. He stated, "The batting performance from all three Indian players was outstanding. They capitalized on the favorable conditions and dew. Unlike the first two matches, they had a better pitch to work with and took full advantage of it. Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal played with restraint, focusing on settling in. Rohit was aware he wouldn't be playing international cricket for the next month, while Yashasvi was finding his footing in the 50-over format. When Virat Kohli entered, he brought an element of excitement, showcasing remarkable fluency that was a joy to watch. He appears to be in excellent form."
The Value of Experienced Players
Bangar further elaborated on the significance of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the Indian lineup. He expressed, "The question of their place in the team should not arise. Their contributions over the years speak volumes. Having retired from two formats, they may require only a few sessions to regain their form, given their extensive experience. They don't need to play as frequently as younger players. When they are fit and eager, their caliber is invaluable. It's essential to manage them differently and allow them the necessary space. Their presence alone can uplift the team's morale. After the disappointing Test series, they likely provided guidance to the younger players, helping them regain confidence and play freely."
Match Overview
In the match summary, India won the toss and opted to field first. The South African team lost Ryan Rickelton without scoring, but a partnership of 113 runs between Quinton de Kock (106 runs off 89 balls, including eight fours and six sixes) and captain Temba Bavuma (48 runs off 67 balls, with five fours) stabilized their innings. De Kock also shared a 54-run partnership with Matthew Breetzke (24 runs off 23 balls, hitting two sixes). However, the Proteas faltered, losing five wickets for 199 runs, with Prasidh Krishna taking 4 wickets for 66 runs. Despite efforts from Dewald Brevis (29 runs off 29 balls) and Marco Jansen (17 runs off 15 balls), South Africa was bowled out for 270 runs in 47.5 overs, collapsing from a strong position of 234/5.
India successfully chased the target in 39.5 overs, with Rohit Sharma scoring 75 runs off 73 balls, forming a 155-run partnership with Yashasvi Jaiswal, who finished with 116 not out off 121 balls, including 12 fours and three sixes. Jaiswal also had a century partnership with Virat Kohli, who contributed 65 runs off 45 balls, leading India to a dominant series victory.