India, led by Rohit Sharma, has reached the semi-final of the eight-team tournament after securing back-to-back wins against Bangladesh and arch-rivals Pakistan in Group A.
Former India batter Ambati Rayudu believes that Virat Kohli’s return to form in the Champions Trophy has given a boost to their already strong batting line-up. Led by Rohit Sharma, India reached the semi-final of the eight-team tournament after securing back-to-back wins against Bangladesh and arch-rivals Pakistan in Group A. Kohli scored a match-winning century against Pakistan and contributed 22 runs against Bangladesh. Meanwhile, Shabman Gill has been in great form at the top of the order, scoring a century against Bangladesh and 46 runs against Pakistan. He has accumulated 147 runs in the tournament so far.
“I believe India’s strength lies in the overall balance of the team. Our top-order batting has been outstanding, and with Virat returning to form, it adds even more power to our already strong batting line-up,” Rayudu told IANS on Friday.
The former batter also noted that it would be interesting to see how India handles New Zealand’s spinners in their upcoming match.
“It will be fascinating to see them face the New Zealand spinners; it will be a great test for them. This match will set things up perfectly for India heading into the semi-finals,” Rayudu added.
The Men in Blue will face New Zealand in their final group match on March 2 before preparing for the semi-finals.
Commenting on England’s early exit from the tournament, Rayudu said the English middle order struggled in subcontinental conditions.
“I think England’s batting against spin and their middle order just wasn’t up to par, which we saw even in their series against India. Their struggles were clear in the Champions Trophy as well. What was surprising was that they didn’t even try to adapt to the conditions or stick to the basics,” he said.
“They were very, very adamant in terms of their style of play. And in the end, it’s proven to be not so great in the sub-continent conditions.”