R Ashwin Credits Rohit Sharma’s Fitness For ‘Looking A Million Dollars’: ‘ Was Always Very Confident…’ | Cricket News

Rohit Sharma celebrates reaching his hundred (AP)

Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin praised Rohit Sharma for looking “a million dollars, all set and poised” during his century against Australia in the third ODI in Sydney. He also complimented Virat Kohli, who scored a brilliant 70-plus runs, noting that Kohli “is properly enjoying himself.” Rohit’s outstanding 121* off 125 balls, featuring 13 fours and three sixes, showcased his power, while Virat’s composed 74* off 81 balls demonstrated his excellent strike rotation and calculated risk-taking abilities. Together, they forged an unbeaten 168-run stand, helping India chase down 236 runs and secure a nine-wicket victory, avoiding a series whitewash against Australia.

This impressive performance followed two matches of rustiness and lack of rhythm for both players. Rohit had previously worked hard at Adelaide, moving from a slow start of 28 balls for six runs to a solid 73 off 97 balls, while Virat made a remarkable comeback after two successive ducks.

‘Rohit Is Looking A Million Dollars’

“What stuck out with Rohit, that he looked proper fit and lean. That is why he is able to get those runs and get going. Even while running with Gill, he wanted a third run, but Gill refused. The quality of batting is always there, but if you are fit, you lose weight, you are able to feel light, and skill will take over. Rohit is looking a million dollars. He is looking all set and poised,” Ashwin was quoted as saying on his YouTube show “Ash ki Baat”.

Ashwin expressed surprise that some people doubted Rohit’s ability to score runs. He affirmed his confidence in both Rohit and Virat’s capabilities.

“He (Rohit) has been one of your best white-ball batters over the decade or so. I was always very confident that he and Virat would both make runs. Virat was not at his best, but still, he found a way to get those runs. The straight drive he played was a sight to behold. All his fans will be very happy today. Virat looked like he is properly enjoying himself. I think it is in his mind now that whatever he is playing now is a real gift for him, and he has to enjoy this phase of his career. The whole stadium was clapping for him when he took the first single,” he concluded.

Rohit earned both the ‘Player of the Match’ and ‘Player of the Series’ awards for his outstanding performance, top-scoring in the series with 202 runs, including a century and a fifty.

(With inputs from Agencies)