In a surprising turn of events during the match against the Netherlands, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav, and Rohit Sharma took charge of the bowling duties. Captain Rohit Sharma's decision left everyone astonished, but the bowling coach revealed that this strategic move had been in the pipeline for two years.
India, having won all nine league-stage matches in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, was set to face New Zealand in the semi-finals. The victory against the Netherlands was almost a given, but what truly astounded everyone was the Indian bowling performance.
Rohit Sharma, leading from the front, utilized nine bowlers in the match, including unexpected names like Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill, known for their batting prowess. Suryakumar Yadav made his international bowling debut in this game. While Kohli and Sharma also chipped in with crucial wickets, the most remarkable aspect was Captain Rohit's decision to use nine bowlers.
After the match, India's bowling coach Paras Mhambrey revealed that the decision to have Kohli, Gill, Yadav, and Sharma bowl was not a random occurrence but a result of meticulous planning over the last two years. He explained that Virat Kohli's off-spin is particularly effective against right-handed batsmen, creating trouble with his unique action. The plan involved giving Kohli a few overs during the powerplay, and in this match, it paid off with valuable wickets.
Suryakumar Yadav and Shubman Gill, with their off-spin variations, proved to be handy during the middle overs. Rohit Sharma, having been an off-spin prodigy in the early days of his career, showcased his bowling skills once again, taking the final wicket to conclude the Netherlands' innings.
The strategic use of batting talents for bowling duties not only adds depth to the bowling attack but also provides flexibility in various match situations. Rohit Sharma's bold move not only secured a convincing win but also demonstrated the team's adaptability and comprehensive planning, showcasing that in cricket, surprises can come from unexpected quarters. The captain's gamble, backed by a well-thought-out plan, has certainly added a new dimension to India's approach in the World Cup.
