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Suresh Raina praised Rohit Sharma’s 119-run knock in the ODI against England, predicting his 33rd century soon.
Rohit Sharma celebrates after completing his century in 2nd ODI against England. (Picture Credit: PTI)
Former India batter Suresh Raina believes that Rohit Sharma isn’t too far from his 33rd ODI century after getting his 32nd in a special comeback knock in Sunday’s ODI against England at Cuttack’s Barabati Stadium.
Opening the batting, Rohit slammed a 90-ball 119 to rush back to form after a difficult six months across Test cricket, the Ranji Trophy and the first ODI against the Englishmen in Nagpur. His knock included 12 fours and seven sixes, helping India chase England’s 305 in just 44.3 overs to seal the series 2-0.
There were many brilliant shots but one stood out for Raina — a 69-metre lofted cover drive.
“That 69 m six, the first shot—it deserves some commentary! My voice is already fading, but that flow, that signature of a great player, was evident. Look at all those shots in the ‘V’! He used his footwork brilliantly against the spinners. He played fewer dot balls after each boundary and six, focusing more on rotation,” Raina said on Star Sports after the match on Sunday.
“I had already said in the show that today is Rohit’s day. There was a different vibe in Cuttack, the fielding was sharp, and that’s how big players are—they win the series today, and they won’t leave Ahmedabad without seizing another opportunity. That 33rd century is also loading—I’m telling you!” he added.
India and England will play the third ODI on Wednesday, February 12, in Ahmedabad.
Raina gives his opinion on Chakaravarthy-Kuldeep debate
Varun Chakaravarthy made his ODI debut in Cuttack and drew the first blood for England by getting Phil Salt out after an unbeaten partnership in the powerplay. However, when asked about his competition for the first spinner’s spot with the more experienced Kuldeep Yadav, Raina leaned towards the latter.
“I think Varun is more used to bowling in T20Is for now, while Kuldeep has variety and wicket-taking ability. Most importantly, he rises to the occasion in big tournaments. I still remember the way he clean-bowled Babar Azam in the ODI World Cup 2019. He has a different skill in his hands, Kuldeep carries massive experience with him of playing big matches,” he said.
The 2025 Champions Trophy will begin on February 19 in Pakistan while India will begin their campaign against Bangladesh on the following day in the UAE.
