In a thrilling display of aggressive cricket, the Indian cricket team took control of the second and final Test against Bangladesh at the Green Park Stadium in Kanpur on Monday, September 30. Despite the interruptions caused by rain, which had consumed more than half of the match, Rohit Sharma and his brigade unleashed a fierce batting assault that left their opponents reeling.
India racked up an impressive 285 runs in just 34.4 overs, achieving a staggering run rate of 8.22—an extraordinary feat for the longest format of the game. This ultra-attacking approach enabled the hosts to declare their innings at 285/9, while also claiming two crucial wickets on Day 4.
The Indian team’s strategy drew widespread praise for its audacity and effectiveness, turning a rain-marred Test into a potential victory. The credit for this fearless batting display, however, did not solely rest on Rohit Sharma’s shoulders.
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India’s bowling coach, Morne Morkel, revealed that the aggressive mindset stemmed from head coach Gautam Gambhir, who was keen to accelerate the game to make up for lost time. Morkel emphasized that adopting this unrelenting pace was crucial in keeping the pressure on Bangladesh.
He stated, “Even from GG’s (Gautam Gambhir) point of view, we decided to take the game forward as fast as possible, and you need a leader from the front to do that. Rohit has done it so many times, and again today. To go to the first ball, bang a six on a surface where the bounce might be up and down, or you may not be sure how the new ball is going to play, is commendable.”
Morkel expressed his admiration for the high level of professionalism displayed by the Indian players, particularly regarding their dedication to training and fitness. He highlighted the commitment shown by the team, not just during net sessions but also in their recovery processes and overall fitness routines. The relentless effort the players invest in being at their best is evident in their performance on the field.
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Closing his remarks, Morne Morkel said, “For me, it’s so far, so enjoyable to see how professional they are and how they go about their daily lives to put on a performance. Their recovery routines, gym work, and fitness drills are exemplary. They honestly leave no stone unturned. I’m not surprised by their success.” With this attitude and execution, India is poised to capitalize on their momentum and push for a win, despite the challenges posed by the weather.