Irfan Pathan highlights ‘biggest strength’ of Rohit Sharma ahead of IND vs AFG ODI series

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As India gears up for its three-match ODI series against Afghanistan, discussions around Rohit Sharma’s form and future have once again taken centre stage. With the countdown to the 2027 ODI World Cup already generating excitement among cricket fans, every innings from the veteran opener is being closely watched. Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has now shared what he believes is Rohit’s greatest batting asset, expressing confidence that the former Indian skipper remains perfectly equipped for major overseas challenges.

Although the 2027 ODI World Cup is still some distance away, anticipation surrounding the tournament has already begun to build. Supporters and experts alike are evaluating which experienced players could continue leading India’s campaign, and Rohit Sharma remains firmly in those conversations.

The upcoming event in South Africa is expected to offer conditions that reward aggressive stroke play while also testing batters with bounce and movement. That has sparked debates about which players are best suited to thrive in such environments, with Rohit’s name frequently emerging as a leading contender. His vast experience, ability to pace an innings and knack for producing match-winning knocks have ensured that expectations remain high whenever he walks out to bat.

Speaking on JioStar, Pathan praised Rohit’s technique against fast bowling, particularly when dealing with short deliveries. According to the former India international, this quality could prove invaluable in South African conditions.

“Rohit Sharma’s biggest strength is his ability to handle short-pitched bowling. He has exceptional timing and gets into position early. In South Africa, where bowlers get both swing and extra bounce, Rohit is the ideal batter to punish anything short,” Pathan said.

The remarks underline the confidence many former cricketers have in Rohit’s adaptability. Over the years, the opener has transformed his game against pace, often counterattacking bowlers who attempt to unsettle him with bouncers. His balance, quick footwork and natural timing have made him one of the most dangerous white-ball batters in world cricket.

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India’s ODI series against Afghanistan now presents Rohit with another chance to reaffirm his status as one of the format’s premier batters. Fans will be eager to see him provide explosive starts while anchoring the innings whenever required. A productive series could further strengthen public belief that he still has a significant role to play in India’s plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup. Beyond the runs themselves, strong performances would reinforce the leadership and consistency he has brought to the side in recent years.

With expectations rising and experienced voices like Irfan Pathan backing his abilities, all eyes will be on Rohit when the action begins. If he produces the kind of commanding displays that have defined his ODI career, excitement around India’s prospects for the next World Cup will only continue to grow.

Also READ: IND vs AFG: 3 reasons why Rohit Sharma could score a century against Afghanistan in the ODI series