Cricket

Suresh Raina credits Rohit Sharma-Shikhar Dhawan opening alliance for India’s 2013 Champions Trophy triumph

Former Indian batter Suresh Raina recalled how Rohit Sharma-Shikhar Dhawan’s opening alliance played a key role in India’s 2013 Champions Trophy triumph. Rohit was promoted to open the innings in ODIs by former skipper MS Dhoni and the right-hander was able to grab his chance with both hands.

While Dhawan top-scored in the tournament with 353 runs in five matches at an impressive average of 90.75, Rohit amassed 177 runs in as many games at 35.40. Thus, the duo gave a solid start to the team in almost all the matches.

The right-left-hand batting combination added 127 runs in the opening match against South Africa at Sophia Garden, Cardiff.

Raina said on JioHotstar, “That was a masterstroke. Just look at the way they batted—they focused on timing rather than forcing shots. They attacked when the delivery deserved it. Rohit, technically very sound, wore the ball down before accelerating, while Shikhar stepped out and took on the bowlers. Left-right combinations always trouble bowlers, and Shikhar was an aggressive striker in his own way. Rohit could hit a six whenever he wanted.”

“Their partnerships were effortless. A 100-run stand quickly turned into 150. They trusted each other’s calls and had great understanding, which made a huge difference.”

Raina said Rohit worked extremely hard on his batting after he could not make it to India’s squad for the 2011 ODI World Cup.

“He worked incredibly hard on his batting, had long discussions with Duncan (Fletcher), and shared a great rapport with MS (Dhoni). Big tournaments create big players. He wasn’t in the 2011 World Cup squad, but when the 2013 Champions Trophy arrived, he grabbed the opportunity — and he still holds that opening spot,” said Raina.

India will begin their Champions Trophy campaign against Bangladesh in Dubai on February 20.

About the Author


Written by DafaNews

DafaNews brings you the most highlighted news in the world of Sports. It serves you up-to-date matches, scores, live streams, fantasy games and quizzes. Our news covers India's prestigious leagues and events – Premier League, Pro Kabbadi League, Cricket World Cup and many more. Follow DafaNews on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,Telegram and Youtube for more updates.

Related Post
Share
Published by
DafaNews

Recent Posts

Wrexham’s Global Success

Wrexham AFC, once a modest club competing in the lower tiers of English football, has… Read More

April 4, 2025

Garcia, Haney, Lopez Ready to Deliver Fireworks

Boxing’s brightest stars are set to light up Times Square on May 2, turning the… Read More

April 4, 2025

Tyrese Maxey’s Breakout Year Leading the 76ers Forward

With Joel Embiid sidelined, the Philadelphia 76ers have found new life behind the explosive rise… Read More

April 4, 2025

HBO’s “Celtics City” Chronicles Boston’s Legendary Past and Championship Present

HBO’s new nine-part documentary series Celtics City provides an immersive look into the Boston Celtics’… Read More

April 4, 2025

The Biggest Storylines Heading Into UFC 314

UFC 314 lands in Miami with one of the year’s most electrifying lineups—an event loaded… Read More

April 4, 2025

Tuchel’s Ruthless Approach

Thomas Tuchel is not in the business of making friends when it comes to selecting… Read More

April 4, 2025