India’s recent ODI series loss to Sri Lanka has raised concerns about their vulnerability to spin bowling on dry surfaces. Captain Rohit Sharma acknowledged the issue, stating that it requires serious attention and individual game plan adjustments.
Despite Rohit’s impressive batting performance, India’s middle-order struggled to cope with the increasing turn and slower tempo of the ball. In the series opener, they collapsed from 75/0 to 132/5, while in the second ODI, they went from 97/0 to 147/6.
Rohit dismissed suggestions of complacency, emphasizing that the team remains committed to winning every game. However, he acknowledged that Sri Lanka outplayed India and deserved credit.
India’s decision to chase in all three matches, due to losing the toss, exposed them to the challenging conditions under lights. In the final ODI, they opted for an extra batter in Riyan Parag, who made his ODI debut and impressed with 3/54.
Rohit explained that the bowling changes were influenced by the conditions and the need to provide opportunities to younger players. He praised the performance of India’s spinners but stressed the need to address the team’s overall weaknesses.
India’s next ODI series is scheduled for January against England, followed by the Champions Trophy in 2025. Rohit expressed confidence in the team’s ability to bounce back from this setback and improve in challenging conditions.
