Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma has shed light on the decision to keep himself and veteran batter Virat Kohli out of the Men in Blue's T20 squad, both since the 2022 World Cup and most recently during the ODI matches against the West Indies. In a candid explanation, Rohit Sharma emphasized that the strategic choice is in preparation for the upcoming ODI World Cup and reflects a deliberate approach to ensure the team's readiness for the tournament.
During an interaction, Rohit stated, “Last year also we did the same thing — the T20 World Cup was there, so we didn't play one-day cricket. Now also we are doing the same, the ODI World Cup is there, so we are not playing T20s." This decision is part of a long-term plan to prioritize preparation for the ODI World Cup, similar to the approach taken previously.
Addressing the selection focus, Rohit highlighted that the absence of Jadeja from the T20 squad should also be acknowledged, illustrating that the strategy is not solely centered on himself and Virat Kohli. He noted that the need to concentrate on specific tournaments and allocate adequate rest and preparation time is essential for players, particularly with the global competitions on the horizon.
In discussing the team's concerns ahead of the ODI World Cup, Rohit acknowledged the ongoing issue with the number four slot in the batting order. Injuries have added complexity to this situation, leading to a revolving door of players at the number four position over the past few years.
Rohit praised Shreyas Iyer for his consistent performances at the number 4 spot in ODI cricket, recognizing his impressive numbers. However, he expressed regret that injuries have disrupted Iyer's momentum, causing him to be sidelined for a significant period. Despite these challenges, Rohit Sharma remains hopeful about Iyer's potential contribution in the future.
With the ODI World Cup on the horizon, the Indian cricket team is navigating a balancing act, striving to address batting concerns and ensure the best possible preparation while maintaining the health and readiness of key players.