In a thrilling clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2023’s Super Four stage, Babar Azam, the Pakistani skipper, made a significant decision by choosing to field first in Colombo. What followed was a spectacle that brought back memories of Virender Sehwag’s fearless opening displays for India, as Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill unleashed a ferocious onslaught on the Pakistani pacers.

Shubman Gill wasted no time and immediately launched an offensive against the Pakistani bowling attack, while Rohit Sharma chose a more patient approach, saving his fireworks for later. Together, they crafted a formidable partnership of 121 runs for the first wicket, a sight that had Indian cricket enthusiasts reminiscing about Sehwag’s glorious days. Follow your favourite cricket team with attractive betting odds from Nextbet. 

However, the joyous partnership took an unexpected turn when Rohit Sharma, the Mumbai maestro, was dismissed for a spirited 56 off 49 balls. Leg-spinner Shadab Khan outfoxed him, and Rohit’s chip shot found its way into the hands of the long-off fielder.

Rohit’s former teammate, Gautam Gambhir, didn’t hold back in his criticism of the Indian captain’s dismissal. He labeled Rohit’s shot choice as “extremely bad” and blamed it for reviving Pakistan’s hopes after they seemed overwhelmed by India’s early onslaught.

Gambhir lamented, “I feel he will be extremely disappointed. The way Rohit Sharma got out, it was an extremely bad shot. He himself knows that shot deserves to be criticized because Pakistan were down and out at that stage.”

India, at one point, appeared poised to set a monumental target, possibly reaching 370-375 runs. However, Rohit Sharma’s untimely exit, followed by Shubman Gill’s dismissal in the very next over, gave Pakistan a much-needed opening.

Gambhir emphasized the importance of not offering even the slightest chance to a formidable bowling attack like Pakistan’s. He noted, “You don’t want to give even the slightest window to a bowling attack like Pakistan. If you had just stood there, he would have given you one or two bad balls every over.”

The rain played spoilsport on September 10, allowing only 24.1 overs of play. However, hope remains alive as a reserve day is in place, and the action is set to resume on September 11, with India at 147/2. Fans on both sides eagerly await the showdown’s thrilling conclusion, as every run and wicket could be pivotal in this high-stakes encounter. Get free cricket betting tips from Nextbet Sports.