Pakistan are a quality side, there’s a reason behind them being number one in ODIs: Rohit Sharma

Ahead of challenging Pakistan in the ongoing Asia Cup 2023, India skipper Rohit Sharma lauded the Men in Green and stated that they are a quality side and have been consistent in recent times, which has helped them become the number-one ranked ODI team in the world. Notably, in the opening game of the Asia Cup, the Babar Azam-led side thrashed Nepal to win the match by 238 runs and with that, they moved an inch closer to the Super Four stage.

Skipper Babar hit 151 runs, while Iftikhar Ahmed hit his maiden ODI century. Thus, India are not taking them lightly, as Rohit Sharma mentioned that it would be really difficult to beat Pakistan in Pallekele on Saturday, September 2.

“Pakistan are a quality side. They have been terrific in the last few years. Be it in the T20 World Cup or in bilateral series, they have done well. There’s a reason behind them being the number-one ranked team in ODIs. There’s a lot of hard work behind it. I’m sure they have worked really hard to be in this position and plus, they have a lot of unity in the team. They are in good form, so it will be a tough challenge for us to get the job done. 

“However, we have prepared well. We have improved in certain areas. Hopefully, we will be able to apply the things we have planned in the match,” Rohit said in the pre-match press conference.

We will have to use our experience to tackle Pakistan pacers: Rohit

Pakistan’s pace trio of Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah have bothered India multiple times in the recent past. Addressing the issue, Rohit mentioned that the Indian batters will have to use their experience in order to tackle them. He eventually lauded the trio but is ready to take them on.

“All three of them are quality bowlers. They are doing well for a few years now. See, Pakistan always had quality bowlers. Now, we have seen them a lot and learnt about their strengths, the areas they can bowl and other such things. So, we will just have to use our experience to get going. It is as simple as that,” Rohit mentioned.

Also see: Most Wickets in Asia Cup 2023