Former Indian cricketer and selector Jatin Paranjape has hailed skipper Rohit Sharma’s aggressive approach in the recent Test series against Bangladesh, particularly in the Kanpur Test. Paranjape believes this match will be remembered as a turning point in Indian cricket history.
Despite losing two days of play due to rain, India managed to secure a 2-0 series victory. In the Kanpur Test, Bangladesh was bowled out for 233 on day four, allowing India to post 285/9 and take two wickets. On the final day, India dismissed Bangladesh for 146 and chased down the target of 95 runs.
Paranjape praised Rohit’s leadership, stating that his attacking mindset has permeated the team. “Since Rohit has become the captain, the intent and DNA of the team have become attack-orientated,” he said. “They have decided that their DNA is to attack, their natural instinct has become attacking, and they would not abandon it.”
Paranjape believes this aggressive approach will continue in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. “I think this is just a trailer of what we will see in Australia later this year,” he said. “They will play such a way, irrespective of the opposition.”
Paranjape also highlighted the talent of Mumbai batter Prithvi Shaw, calling him “the most talented player in India.” He expressed confidence that Shaw will have a successful season in the upcoming Ranji Trophy.
Regarding spin all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin, Paranjape believes his best years are ahead of him. “Nothing short of fantastic (his performances against Bangladesh),” he said. “He is a legend. He writes his name into the list of legends of Indian cricket. I think his best five years are ahead of us.”
Ashwin won the ‘Player of the Series’ award against Bangladesh, scoring 114 runs and taking 11 wickets. He became the joint-most ‘Player of the Series’ winner in Test cricket, alongside Muttiah Muralitharan.
