NEW DELHI: Ahead of the second ODI against Afghanistan in Lucknow, India’s spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule backed Rohit Sharma amid renewed discussions over the veteran opener’s future. The 39-year-old has endured a dip in form recently and concerns have resurfaced because of his age, a recent hamstring injury and modest IPL returns. Rohit managed only 16 runs in the first ODI against Afghanistan after being run out.Despite the scrutiny, Bahutule stressed that Rohit’s experience and leadership continue to be vital for the team, especially with Shubman Gill now leading the ODI side.“I think Rohit is definitely an experienced player. He’s a champion cricketer. I think he is somebody who adds value to this team with his experience, not only batting-wise, but his leadership qualities also rub off on all the boys, with Shubman also. So I think him being on the side is definitely very, very important, and he’s somebody who understands each game, who understands what is expected from him and from the team,” Sairaj told reporters. “I think he is just looking forward to every match and all the work he is putting in is like he has just started playing.”
Praise for KL Rahul
Bahutule also lauded KL Rahul, who has been in excellent form across formats. After scoring a century in the one-off Test against Afghanistan, Rahul made an unbeaten 39 off 19 balls in the rain-shortened first ODI.“I think he is a fabulous player. I think he is somebody who adapts to conditions really quickly and the formats as he has proven in these two games,” he said.“I just feel that you send him at any number, he is somebody who will perform for you, understands the situation, understands what is needed for him at that particular moment, adapts to the conditions and delivers. So I think wherever he decides to bat or wherever he is given that opportunity, he will be an important member of the team.”