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Support for Rohit Sharma from Batting Coach

Sitanshu Kotak, the batting coach for India, has shown his support for veteran opener Rohit Sharma, despite the player's recent struggles in the ongoing ODI series against England. Kotak emphasized that a player of Rohit's caliber does not succumb to pressure, even when he hasn't scored in the last two matches.

Confidence in Rohit's Comeback

During the post-match press conference following India's four-wicket loss to England in the second ODI, Kotak expressed optimism about Rohit's return to form. He stated, "I don't believe a player as accomplished as Rohit can feel pressure. He is too talented for that. Although he hasn't scored runs in the last two matches, it doesn't change his ability. Today, it seemed like he might have a good innings, but that's part of the game."

Rohit's Recent Performance

In the current ODI series against England, Rohit has recorded scores of 11 and 26 in the first two matches. This year has been challenging for the Indian captain, who has accumulated only 241 runs in eight matches, averaging 30.12, with a top score of 79.

England Equalizes Series in Cardiff

In the match, England managed to level the three-match series 1-1 by defeating India at Sophia Gardens, Cardiff. Chasing a target of 234 runs, Joe Root played a pivotal role, scoring an unbeaten 99 off 133 balls, and forming a vital 72-run partnership with Will Jacks, who contributed 30 runs, after England found themselves at 125/5. Gus Atkinson also remained not out on 23, helping England reach the target with nearly six overs remaining.

India's Bowling Performance

India started strong with the ball, as Jasprit Bumrah dismissed Ben Duckett on the first ball of the innings, and Prasidh Krishna took out Jacob Bethell early on. Debutant Gurnoor Brar took two wickets, while Bumrah, Krishna, Shivam Dube, and Axar Patel each claimed one wicket.

India's Batting Struggles

Earlier, England's bowling attack limited India to 233 runs in 44 overs, despite half-centuries from Virat Kohli (65) and Shreyas Iyer (66). Rohit Sharma scored 26 runs, while Shubman Gill added 31. Ishan Kishan, who replaced the ill KL Rahul, managed only one run. Jofra Archer and Gus Atkinson each took three wickets, while Saqib Mahmood secured two.

Final ODI to Decide Series

The series will conclude with the third and final ODI at Lord's on July 19.