We have a ‘FANTASTIC’ set of fast bowlers: Rohit Sharma

Rohit Sharma has showered praise on his fast bowlers following their exceptional performance in the Asia Cup final against Sri Lanka. The final match showcased India’s pace attack at its finest, leaving fans and experts in awe just ahead of the Cricket World Cup 2023.

The star of the day was undoubtedly Mohammed Siraj, whose fiery spell sent shockwaves through Sri Lanka’s top-order batsmen like a hot knife through butter. Siraj managed a spectacular five-wicket haul in just 16 balls, a performance that left everyone astounded.

Speaking at the post-match press conference, Rohit Sharma revealed that Siraj was so pumped up during his opening spell that he was reluctant to be taken off the attack. “He bowled seven overs in that spell, and I got a message from the trainer that we have to stop him now. He was quite desperate to bowl,” Rohit Sharma stated, highlighting the fast bowler’s determination and hunger for wickets.

Rohit Sharma couldn’t help but admire Siraj’s ability to make the ball move more than the other bowlers. “We were riding behind him (Siraj) when he was bowling that spell,” the skipper added, indicating the team’s strong support for their impressive fast bowler.

While Mohammed Siraj stole the limelight, it was Jasprit Bumrah who initiated the day’s success with a crucial wicket in the opening over. Hardik Pandya, another key asset in the pace department, sealed the deal with three wickets in just 14 balls. Rohit Sharma expressed immense satisfaction in witnessing such an outstanding performance from his fast bowlers, emphasizing the pride he takes in having a formidable pace attack at his disposal.

“I get a lot of satisfaction when I see fast bowlers perform like this. All the captains take a lot of pride in fast bowling (at their disposal), and I am no different. We have got a fantastic set of fast bowlers,” Rohit Sharma proudly declared, acknowledging the diverse skill sets and variations among his bowlers.

Despite the fast bowlers dominating the headlines, the Player of the Tournament award went to Kuldeep Yadav, the wrist spinner who led India’s spin department during the Asia Cup. Yadav ended the tournament with a remarkable nine wickets at an average of 11.44. Captain Rohit Sharma had high praise for Yadav’s recent resurgence in form and his ability to thrive under pressure.

“Kuldeep has done very well under pressure,” Rohit Sharma commended. “He drags the team back into the match from any situation.”

With the Asia Cup triumph behind them, India now prepares for a three-match bilateral series at home against Australia in the run-up to the Cricket World Cup. If they secure a series victory there, they have a rare opportunity to claim the top spot in the MRF Tyres ICC Men’s Team Rankings across all three formats.