Rohit Sharma believes reverse sweeps will be a key against Lasith Malinga

Newly appointed Indian ODI vice-captain Rohit Sharma might have not had best of the times in whites but the fact remains that he is one of the cleanest strikers of the ball in the world in limited-overs cricket. After embarrassing Sri Lanka 3-0 in the Test series, India is set to dominate even in the shorter formats. Chief selector MSK Prasad hinted that Rohit, in all likelihood, will be opening alongside Shikhar Dhawan in the ODIs.

The right-hander warmed the bench in the Test series as there were no spots up for grabs in the middle order right through the three matches. While speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a net session in Pallekele, Rohit mentioned that he has divulged his innovative plans to counter Lasith Malinga during the upcoming ODI series against Sri Lanka.

“Everyday is a learning day, today I got to learn something playing those sweeps and reverse-sweeps when someone like Malinga comes and bowls to you. It is something that the game demands these days. You got to be innovative and you got to play different kind of shots to get maximum results, ” Sharma said.

Why Rohit v Malinga is worth watching

How Rohit counters Malinga will be interesting particularly because they have been team-mates at Mumbai Indians since 2011 and being the captain of the team, Rohit is well aware of Slinga Malinga’s bowling plans.

Despite the fact that the Lankan pacer’s venom isn’t as toxic as it used to be, the experience he brings in the bowling contingent is the side’s best bet, considering that lack of experience has been cited as the biggest reason for their terrible display in the International arena lately.

Never too late to make a mark for Hitman

He may not have got a chance to feature in the Test series, but Rohit hinted that he would be compensating for his absence from the field with some innovative shots during the ODI series. The 30-year-old said that he plans to add more shots to his armoury in a bid to stay on par with the game’s ever changing dynamics.

Speaking about the Malinga threat, Sharma emphasized the need to practice high-risk strokes like sweep and reverse-sweep to counter the Lankan pacers’ vicious deliveries. He also talked about the importance of innovating during net sessions, adding that it helps improve one’s skills and in grasping a new approach to the game, eventually adding to the process of making the player a better version of himself.