'He just has to focus harder there' - Rohit Sharma’s childhood coach backs him to shine in the World Test Championship final

Many eyes will be on Rohit Sharma when India meets New Zealand in the ICC World Test Championship final in Southampton next month. The veteran Indian opener has done a commendable job as a Test opener so far, and his numbers are daunting. However, England has been one of the most challenging places for Test openers in recent years as the Dukes ball, and swing-friendly conditions favour the fast bowlers.

On top of that, New Zealand’s bowling attack comprises of the pace quartet of Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Neil Wagner and Kyle Jamieson, who would be raring to take the red cherry in hand. Hence, Rohit has a point to prove. Speaking of Hitman’s challenges in the WTC final, his childhood coach Dinesh Lad reckoned that the moving deliveries could challenge Rohit, but he’ll overcome the hurdles.

“He just has to focus harder there, play every ball to its merit because there will be significant movement. But talking about the recent home series against England on turning tracks, Rohit played proper cricketing shots while others seemed to struggle,” Lad told Sportskeeda.

Rohit Sharma will adapt the English conditions: Dinesh Lad

“So I am sure he will adjust his game in England as well because it’s all about adjusting to different conditions at the highest level. Yes, he might some face problems because the ball swings in England more than in any other country and you have to be extremely focused in order to handle that movement,” he added.

Notably, India’s pace attack also consists of some big names like Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah. Hence, Lad feels facing these fast bowlers in nets will help Rohit to get in the groove. “But if he faces the quality bowlers that India have during net sessions or intra-squad matches, then it might help him to acclimatise to the conditions better,” Lad asserted.

So far, Rohit has scored 2615 runs in 38 Test matches at an average of 46.69. However, his average drops down significantly to 27 when it comes to overseas Test matches. Hence, the 34-year-old would be determined to improve his record and take India to glory.

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