ICC World Cup 2019 | We needed a Ben Stokes like innings, says Rohit Sharma

After a mammoth 160-run opening stand in just 22.1 overs, England looked set to post in excess of 370. But, the Indian bowlers, led my Mohammed Shami pulled things back impressively conceding only 70 runs in the next 17 overs and picking up three wickets.

However, just when it looked like England might struggle to make 320, Ben Stokes played a match-winning knock of 79 off just 54 balls. And Indian vice-captain Rohit Sharma felt that it was the difference between the two sides. 

After a dreadful start losing Rahul for a duck, India consolidated with their two best batsmen at the crease with Sharma and skipper Virat Kohli putting up a 138-run second wicket partnership. But, just when India looked to accelerate they lost wickets - Kohli first and Sharma soon after reaching his ton. 

“We lost K.L. (Rahul) right at the start and they bowled well. It was important that the guy in form bats long and it was between me and Virat and we knew that the longer we bat, we will get closer to the target. You also need that X-factor innings, 70 off 40. Hardik was looking good but he couldn’t go on, that’s what Ben Stokes did for England,” Rohit said at the post match press conference, reported Sportstar.

With India’s middle order yet to deliver a convincing performance, a change was being called for from all corners. Sharma was probed regarding the uncertainty regarding the much-discussed no.4 spot. 

“There is no uncertainty with regard to the number four position, Vijay Shankar was supposed to play but before the game he got hit on the toe by Jasprit (Bumrah) and he wasn’t fit. Every team will have these one or two changes happening every now and then,” Rohit said in response. 

As the popular choice, Rishabh Pant, walked out at no.4 on Sunday, India still needed another 192 runs in less than 22 overs. Although he made 32 off just 29 balls, Pant failed to finish the job for his team. However, senior man Rohit came to his defence quickly, in a slightly comical fashion. 

“You guys wanted Pant to play right, asking where is Rishabh Pant? There he is, at no.4! He needs some time in the middle. It was the right move for him. We all know what he can do with the bat. Playing his first game, expecting a lot is not right at the moment from him. He should just come and play his cricket. When he does that, he does well,” Rohit added.

When pressed about the extra burden on himself and Virat to do the heavy work in the batting department, Rohit said that it was their duty to do it for the team, and expressed his gladness in bearing the responsibility.