Yuvraj backs Rohit: ‘He’ll smash a 60-ball century against Pakistan
Rohit Sharma has regained form after a tough Test tour in Australia. He smashed a century against England in the second ODI and started the Champions Trophy with a quick 41 off 36 balls against Bangladesh. Though he missed a big score, his aggressive start boosted India’s run chase.
Since the 2023 ODI World Cup, Rohit has focused on maximizing powerplay overs. He aims for impact over just runs. His Champions Trophy approach reflects the same. If he bats deep, he can pile up runs quickly. Ahead of India’s high-stakes clash with Pakistan in Dubai, former all-rounder Yuvraj Singh backed Rohit to deliver big.
“If he’s in form, he will score a century in 60 balls. That’s his quality—once he gets going, he’s unstoppable. He clears the ropes with ease and plays the short ball brilliantly. Even against bowlers clocking 145-150 kmph, he hooks effortlessly. His strike rate stays between 120-140, and on his day, he wins games single-handedly,” Yuvraj said on JioHotstar’s Greatest Rivalry Returns.
Yuvraj also emphasized Rohit and Virat Kohli’s match-winning abilities, regardless of their form.
“Rohit Sharma, whether in form or out of form, remains a match-winner. In ODIs, alongside Virat Kohli, he’s India’s biggest asset. Even if Rohit struggles but still scores, it spells danger for the opposition,” Yuvraj added.
Rohit has impressive stats against Pakistan. In 19 ODIs, he has scored 873 runs at an average of 51.35 and a strike rate of 92.38. His record includes two centuries and eight fifties, with a top score of 140.
Former Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq also praised Rohit and Kohli.
“All Indian players are talented, but Rohit and Virat stand apart. They have delivered consistently for nearly 20 years and have a huge impact on the team. If they get out early, India’s dressing room feels the pressure, and Pakistan’s morale soars,” Inzamam said.
He stressed that India’s younger players are still developing, just as Pakistan relies heavily on Babar Azam.
“If Babar gets out early, the opposition’s bowlers gain confidence, and Pakistan feels the heat. For Pakistan to win, the middle and lower order must step up. If India loses Rohit and Virat early, Pakistan gains a strong advantage,” he concluded.
India vs Pakistan always brings high expectations. With Rohit in form, Yuvraj’s prediction of a 60-ball century could turn into reality.
