In a recent statement, Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin expressed steadfast support for skipper Rohit Sharma amid the criticism following his performance in the World Cup final against Australia. Despite Sharma’s stellar contributions throughout the tournament and a formidable score of 597 runs in 11 matches, his dismissal at 47 runs off 31 balls in the final garnered negative attention. The captain was on the receiving end of criticism for his bold but unsuccessful attempt to dispatch Glenn Maxwell for a maximum.
Ashwin, however, came to Sharma’s defense, emphasizing the captain’s aggressive approach as a positive force for the team. “Everybody says in hindsight that he would score 100 if he carried on, but it was his intent that made the team play in such a way. Rohit Sharma doesn’t need to be taught to score hundreds—he has had quite a lot—but it is the intent which counts,” Ashwin remarked.
Beyond the boundary, Ashwin shared his shock regarding Australia’s strategic decision to bowl first, commending their insightful reading of the Ahmedabad pitch. He acknowledged the cunning of Australian skipper Pat Cummins and selector George Bailey for their unexpected choice, which played a significant part in Australia’s sixth World Cup triumph. Ashwin admitted that Australia’s superb performance left him shell-shocked, stating, “Australia were practically outstanding in the final. Australia has deceived me personally, as their history goes by, they say ‘we are going to have a bat, mate!’ after winning the toss in the big finals.”
The seasoned off-spinner also offered a unique perspective on the playing conditions in Ahmedabad, likening the pitch to the soil from Odisha in the eastern part of India—with lower bounce that would not disintegrate due to the clay’s moisture retention. “I was praying to the lord that Australia should do that, because many people do not understand that the soil in Ahmedabad was like Odisha’s, as in, it played like how any soil taken from the eastern part of the country would play—if every pitch gets bounce until the knee, this would get bounce only up to the shin,” he explained.
As the cricket world looks ahead, the focus remains fixed on future fixtures and global contests. Followers of the sport are encouraged to stay updated as the World Cup 2023 narratives continue to unfold. Fans across the globe can stay in touch with the latest happenings via official updates, check the World Cup 2023 schedules, and enjoy the thrill of the game through various media and social platforms. The dedication of notable players like Rohit Sharma and the strategic acumen of teams as exhibited by Australia set the stage for an ever-evolving, dynamic, and exciting international cricket scenario.
Australia’s dominance over India in the World Cup final, ending India’s 10-match winning streak, has marked yet another chapter in the sport’s rich history. As the cricket fervor shows no signs of waning, the global community celebrates the spirit of the game and its power to unite nations in the celebration of sportsmanship, talent, and passion.