Captain Rohit Sharma delivered a Player of the Match performance in India’s four-wicket victory over New Zealand at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday, silencing recent criticism.
During India’s pursuit of 252, Rohit led from the front with an aggressive innings of 76 runs, including seven boundaries and three sixes, providing India with a strong start.
The 37-year-old captain discussed his aggressive batting approach, crediting the team’s batting depth for allowing him to play with freedom.
“It is very nice. We played some good cricket through the tournament. To have the result our way is a great feeling. (Aggressive style) Not natural to me, but something I really wanted to do. When you are doing something different, you have to have the backing of the team and management. I spoke to Rahul bhai earlier and now Gauti bhai as well. It is something I really wanted to do. I have played all these years in a different style, and now we are getting the results with this.”
“We have to understand the nature of the surfaces and I was very clear about how I wanted to execute the first five-six overs. I have gotten out as well earlier, but the execution matters. The depth gives me the freedom and it helps. With Jadeja coming at 8, it gives you the confidence to go hard up front. As long as I am clear in my mind, it is great.”
Under Rohit’s leadership, India secured their second ICC trophy in two years, following their 2024 T20 World Cup triumph. This victory marked India’s third Champions Trophy title, adding to their previous wins in 2002 and 2013.
“I appreciate everyone who came to support us. The crowd has been amazing. Not our home ground but they made it our home ground. Very satisfying win. Right from the beginning our spinners… there was too much expectation but they never disappointed. It helped them and we used that to our advantage. We were very consistent with our bowling.”