Rohit Sharma’s Initial Response As Undefeated Team India Advances To World Cup Semifinals From Chennai Commencement

Summary: Rohit Sharma praised two standout Indian team performers following their dominant victory over Sri Lanka, securing a spot in the World Cup semi-finals.

In their remarkable seventh consecutive victory at the prestigious ICC World Cup 2023, Rohit Sharma's Team India dominated Sri Lanka, securing a spot in the semi-finals with an emphatic 302-run win in match No.33. Led by opener Shubman Gill, former captain Virat Kohli, and star batsman Shreyas Iyer, Rohit's squad posted an imposing total in the Wankhede Stadium's rematch of 2011 final against Sri Lanka.

Inducing a batting collapse against the 1996 champions, fast bowlers Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj delivered a destructive performance as Sri Lanka crumbled, managing only 55 runs in 19.4 overs. With this resounding victory over the former champions, India not only prolonged their unbeaten streak but also achieved the distinction of becoming the inaugural team to secure a spot in the semi-finals of the ICC World Cup 2023, hosted by them.

Addressing the post-match ceremony, Rohit expressed his satisfaction with India's official qualification for the latter stages of the ICC tournament. The two-time champions, India, last clinched the 50-over spectacle in 2011 when they hosted the One Day International (ODI) World Cup. Rohit stated, "I am delighted with our official qualification. Our journey began in Chennai, and our initial goal was to secure a spot in the semi-finals and finals. The team's approach in these 7 matches was methodical, with every player contributing, and several individuals stepping up."

The experienced Indian opener showered praise on Shreyas Iyer, who faced criticism for his batting performance against England in Lucknow. Iyer delivered a splendid innings of 82 runs from 56 balls, contributing to India's total of 357-8 in 50 overs against Sri Lanka in Mumbai. Rohit remarked, "Shreyas is mentally strong and demonstrated precisely what he's renowned for. He met the expectations, proving he's prepared to tackle the challenges ahead."

The 36-year-old captain also commended pacer Mohammed Siraj for his outstanding performance, taking three vital wickets during his aggressive spell against Sri Lanka in Mumbai. Rohit stated, "Siraj is a top-tier bowler, and when he wields the new ball, it has a significant impact on our game. His skills are particularly evident with the new ball."

India, already assured of a place in the ICC World Cup, will face South Africa in the round-robin stage. India has triumphed in seven matches, while South Africa ranks second on the points table with six victories and one loss. Rohit concluded, "Both South Africa and we are in good form. The upcoming match promises to be an exciting spectacle, and the people of Kolkata are in for a treat."