Champions Trophy: Team Management Delighted with Sharma's Squad Execution, Says Paranjape
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Synopsis
Jatin Paranjape, former Indian cricketer, praised the Rohit Sharma-led team's execution in their six-wicket victory over Pakistan in the 2025 Champions Trophy, highlighting key performances from bowlers and Kohli's unbeaten century.
Key Takeaways
- India's bowling attack effectively limited Pakistan to 241 runs.
- Kohli's century solidified India's chase, marking his 51st ODI ton.
- Team management is pleased with execution and performance.
- Minor injury concerns exist for key players ahead of the next match.
- Upcoming match against New Zealand is crucial for India's campaign.
New Delhi, Feb 24 (NationPress) Jatin Paranjape, the former India cricketer and national selector, expressed that the current team management will be delighted with the near-flawless execution demonstrated by the Rohit Sharma-led team in achieving a six-wicket victory over Pakistan in the 2025 Champions Trophy.
During the match at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday, India managed to bowl out Pakistan for 241 runs in 49.4 overs. Kuldeep Yadav, the left-arm wrist spinner, captured 3 wickets for 40 runs, while Hardik Pandya claimed 2 for 31. Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, and Harshit Rana each contributed with a wicket.
In response, Virat Kohli scored an unbeaten 100, marking his 51st ODI century and surpassing the 14,000 runs milestone in ODIs, allowing India to chase down 242 runs with 45 balls remaining. This victory almost guarantees India a spot in the semi-finals following two wins in Group A.
“While this may not be the toughest match India faces in the tournament, it certainly was the most high-profile. The Indian team management will be extremely pleased with the exceptional execution displayed by the entire team yesterday. In terms of bowling, Hardik, Harshit, Jadeja, Axar, and Kuldeep performed excellently by skillfully adjusting their deliveries according to the pitch conditions,” stated Paranjape, who is also a member of the BCCI’s Cricket Advisory Committee and co-founder of KheloMore, in an interview with IANS on Monday.
Kohli's unbeaten century came off 111 balls, featuring seven boundaries—a performance that showcased his traditional brilliance. He built crucial partnerships of 69 and 114 runs with Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer, who scored 46 and 56 runs, respectively.
“With the bat, Rohit Sharma appeared in excellent mental form and batting rhythm. Shreyas Iyer also displayed remarkable form, and the ball was flying off the bat. Kohli was outstanding and guided the team to victory like the great champion he is. Pakistan remains troubled by his presence,” Paranjape added.
India's next match in Group A is against the formidable New Zealand on March 2. Paranjape concluded by expressing hope that the minor injury concerns would be resolved before this critical encounter in the eight-team tournament.
“India is facing a couple of concerns with Shami’s shin injury, which clearly limited his performance, and Rohit Sharma moving cautiously due to a hamstring issue is concerning. The upcoming game will likely be the most crucial indicator of India’s form against the resilient Kiwis who will fight till the end,” he remarked.
