• Source:JND

Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif backed Rohit Sharma, questioning why some people continue to doubt the veteran batter despite his consistent performances.

After India's convincing 3-0 ODI series win over Afghanistan, Kaif said it was unfair to judge Rohit based on a few low scores. He pointed out that Rohit has repeatedly delivered for India in important matches and remains one of the team's most valuable players.

India completed the clean sweep with a comfortable nine-wicket victory in the third ODI at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on June 20. Chasing 219, India reached the target in just 28.4 overs. Rohit played a major role in the chase with a well-made 79 off 69 balls, while Yashasvi Jaiswal starred with an unbeaten 110.

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Speaking about Rohit's form, Kaif said he finds it difficult to understand why so many people seem eager to see the Indian captain fail. According to him, Rohit has always responded well under pressure and has consistently stepped up in big tournaments.

Kaif highlighted Rohit's recent performances and said that a few failures should not overshadow everything he has achieved. He added that Indian fans should hope Rohit continues his good form and remains part of the team's plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup.

The former batter also believes India will need the experience of both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the next World Cup. Their presence, he said, could be crucial in guiding the younger players and handling high-pressure situations.

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How Rohit Sharma perform against Afghanistan?

Rohit's series against Afghanistan had an up-and-down start. He was run out for 16 in the first ODI after a mix-up with Shubman Gill. In the second match, he scored a quick 48 before being dismissed by Rashid Khan. However, he finished the series strongly with his match-winning knock in Chennai and ended with 143 runs at a strike rate of over 115.

India's top-order performances have now created a healthy selection challenge for the team management. Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal all looked in excellent touch during the series, making it difficult to decide on the ideal opening combination going forward.

Jaiswal got his chance in the playing XI because Virat Kohli was unavailable due to injury. KL Rahul was also rested for the final ODI, allowing other players to make the most of their opportunities.

Afghanistan's batting in 3rd ODI

Earlier in the match, Afghanistan were bowled out for 218 despite a fighting century from captain Hashmatullah Shahidi, who scored 102 runs. Azmatullah Omarzai also contributed with a solid half-century.

For India, Prasidh Krishna was the standout performer with the ball. The fast bowler claimed his first five-wicket haul in ODI cricket and played a key role in restricting Afghanistan. His brilliant spell earned him the Player of the Match award, while Shubman Gill was named Player of the Series.

India will now shift their focus to the upcoming three-match ODI series against England which is scheduled to start from June 14.


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