Amid Controversy, Vikram Rathour Expresses Confidence in Kohli and Sharma
New York, August 10, 2023:
Indian batting coach Vikram Rathour has voiced his confidence in the team’s two most experienced batters, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, ahead of a potentially challenging match against Pakistan on a “semi-dangerous” pitch in New York. The match, which will be played at the Citi Field on Sunday, has been the subject of much controversy after the pitch was deemed “unplayable” by some experts. The uneven surface and excessive grass cover have raised concerns about the safety of the batsmen. Despite the skepticism, Rathour remained positive about India’s chances. “Virat and Rohit are world-class players and they have a proven track record of performing in all conditions,” he said. “I am confident that they will be able to tackle the challenge of this pitch and help us win the match.” Rathour acknowledged that the pitch was indeed “tricky,” but he emphasized that the Indian batsmen were prepared for the challenge. “We have been training in similar conditions in the lead-up to this match,” he said. “We have been working on our footwork and shot selection, and I am satisfied with the progress that we have made.” The Indian team has also been buoyed by the return of all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who was ruled out of the team’s previous match with a back injury. Pandya’s presence in the middle order will provide stability and power to the Indian batting lineup. “Hardik is a valuable asset to our team,” Rathour said. “He gives us another dimension with his batting, bowling, and fielding. His experience and leadership will be crucial for us in this important match.” Despite the controversy surrounding the pitch, Rathour believes that the match will be a fair contest between two evenly matched teams. “Pakistan is a dangerous side and we cannot afford to underestimate them,” he said. “But I am confident that we have the players and the experience to come out on top.” The India-Pakistan match is scheduled to begin at 7:30 PM Eastern Time on Sunday, August 12th. Fans around the world will be eagerly watching to see if India can overcome the challenges of the pitch and emerge victorious against their archrivals.
Amid Controversy, Vikram Rathour Expresses Confidence in Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to Tackle ‘Semi-Dangerous’ Pitch in New York
New York, USA:
Amidst growing concerns over the condition of the pitch at the Citi Field stadium in New York, where India will face arch-rivals Pakistan in a much-anticipated Asia Cup 2023 clash on August 28, Indian batting coach Vikram Rathour has expressed confidence in the abilities of star batters Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to navigate the challenging surface. “We are aware of the concerns regarding the pitch, but we have full faith in the skills and experience of our batsmen, especially Virat and Rohit,” said Rathour at a press conference before the team’s departure for the United States. “They have proven time and time again that they can adjust to any conditions and produce match-winning performances.” The pitch at the Citi Field stadium has been under scrutiny in recent weeks after several practice matches and exhibition games witnessed inconsistent bounce and excessive cracks, raising concerns about its safety for high-intensity international cricket. However, Rathour downplayed the severity of the pitch concerns, describing it as “semi-dangerous” and not “outright dangerous.” “It’s important to remember that the conditions will be the same for both teams,” added Rathour. “Our focus is on preparing our batsmen to be adaptable and to be able to execute their shots confidently on any surface. We have been working on their footwork, balance, and shot selection to ensure that they are equipped to handle the challenge.” Kohli and Sharma, both legendary batters in their own right, have a wealth of experience in playing on difficult pitches both in home and away conditions. Kohli, in particular, has a proven track record of performing well in major tournaments, leading India to memorable victories in high-pressure matches. “We trust in the capabilities of our batsmen,” concluded Rathour. “We know that they will rise to the occasion and give their best for the team and the country. We are confident that we can overcome any challenge that the pitch may present and come out on top in this crucial match against Pakistan.”
