Heading into the game against Australia, India only needed to avoid a heavy defeat to secure a semi-final spot. They exceeded expectations by winning their sixth consecutive match in this T20 World Cup, thereby advancing to the semi-finals as group toppers. After the match, India skipper Rohit Sharma reflected on his team’s impressive victory against the 2021 champions.
“I think we adapted to the conditions really well, and it was about individuals doing their job. It was about getting wickets at the right time,” said Rohit.
India will face the defending champions, England, on June 27, in Guyana.
“We don’t want to do anything different (against England), play the same way and understand what each person has to do,” asserted Rohit. “Play freely and not think too much about what’s ahead. Not think about the opposition. We have been doing it consistently, just need to continue. It will be a nice match. Nothing changes for us as a team.”
With the bat in hand, Rohit looked unstoppable. The opener reached 50 in just 19 balls, excelling against the quicks, Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, during the Powerplay. It was the fastest 50 against Australia in men’s T20 World Cup history.
He was smashing everything into the stands, using his range and power. It seemed he was seeking revenge for the heartbreak of November 19 (50-over World Cup final), as Rohit did not give an inch to the Mitchell Marsh-led Australian side.
“I was thinking of hitting everything that was possible,” admitted Rohit. “You can access all sides of the field. That is what I was trying to do. It has been a good wicket and you need to back yourself on good wickets, glad that it came off today.”
Australia skipper Marsh said his team will be rooting for Bangladesh when they face Afghanistan. An Afghan win will knock Australia out. “Disappointing. It happens in the game of cricket. Over the course of 40 overs, there are a lot of small margins. India were the better team; Rohit is a class player.”
“In a run chase like that, if you keep it at 10 an over, we are in the game. India’s bowlers were too good though in the end. Come on, Bangladesh now!”
A win for Bangladesh will keep Australia’s hopes alive, with the net run rate playing a crucial role. If Afghanistan win, they’ll play South Africa in the semi-final.