Rohit Sharma’s ability to play against fast-bowling is second to none: Dinesh Karthik

The Rohit Sharma-led Indian side went on to level the three-match T20I series against Australia by winning the 8-overs-a-side second T20I in a thriller. Though it was Sharma’s unbeaten knock of 46*(20) which led India to a magnificent victory, Dinesh Karthik scored the winning runs to seal a victory for India.

He smashed a six and a four in the two balls that he faced, and helped India chase down the target. But Karthik was all praises for the skipper, and lauded his ability to play the pacers. Unlike the recent games, Rohit Sharma kept his wicket safe throughout the game, and played a very sensible knock. Of the 46 runs that he score, he hit four fours and as many sixes and remained unbeaten.

"Rohit Sharma played brilliantly. I got two balls, so I just tried my best there. To play such shots against the new ball, against top-class new ball bowlers, is not easy. It shows why Rohit is such a big player in world cricket, not only Indian cricket. His ability to play against fast-bowling is second to none and that is what makes him truly special," said Karthik at the post-match press conference.

I have been practicing over a period of time: Karthik on his role as finisher

Karthik made a comeback into the Indian side after he showcased his talent as a finisher for the team. While playing for the RCB, he played some terrific knocks under pressure and piled up as many runs as possible during the death overs. The 37-year-old revealed that he has been focused on that role of his, as he added:

"Look, I have been practicing over a period of time for this, and I have been doing it for RCB and I am happy doing it here. It is a consistent routine over a period of time. When I get off time, I get a lot of scenario practice. Vikram Rathour and Rahul Dravid have also been accommodating of how I want to practice, and what shots I want to practice. I have been very specific about it, I don't practice too much, I just keep it as specific as possible."