“I believe it was a smart and brave decision” Zaheer Khan praises Rohit Sharma to give bowling to Ravi Bishnoi for 2nd super over.
The third T20 International between India and Afghanistan at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru unfolded as a gripping and eventful contest. Initially, India faced challenges with the bat during the early overs. However, the combination of skipper Rohit Sharma and Rinku Singh seized control, steering the hosts to a formidable total of 212 runs in the first innings. Afghanistan, in response, equaled the score, thanks to Gulbadin Naib’s aggressive batting display.
In the first Super Over, Afghanistan set a target of 16 runs. Mukesh Kumar displayed a commendable performance initially, but the last two deliveries conceded nine runs, momentarily shifting the momentum. Rohit Sharma, however, played a crucial role, bringing the game back to a deadlock. Subsequently, the match proceeded to a second Super Over, where the Men in Blue managed to score only 11 runs while batting first.
Notably, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma made an unconventional choice by entrusting Ravi Bishnoi with the ball for the Super Over. Despite the pressure, the spinner exhibited composure and skill, securing two wickets in three deliveries. This pivotal contribution from Bishnoi proved instrumental in India clinching victory. Former India cricketer Zaheer Khan commended Rohit Sharma for his bold decision to support Bishnoi in the second Super Over.
Zaheer Khan said “I believe it was a smart and brave decision because you don’t have that much time in these situations. You have to back your instincts and thinking. So whoever was part of that think-tank, you need to praise them for sure, “The second Super Over started very well, (India) started with a six. So it seemed like India would bat Afghanistan out, but that didn’t happen. They lost two wickets and didn’t even play the entire six balls. After that, you had to take a big decision, about who would bowl. So that decision was taken very well because batters generally score 12 runs easily as the bowler makes mistakes due to the pressure on him.”
Khan emphasized that Rohit’s reliance on instincts played a crucial role in the team’s success during the intense encounter.