IND v ENG 2021: ‘Need to be extra cautious and focussed while batting during twilight phase’, says Rohit Sharma

Rohit is set to feature in his second pink ball Test against England in Ahmedabad.

By Salman Anjum - 22 Feb, 2021

India opener Rohit Sharma, who is all set to feature in his second pink ball Test, will be "extra cautious and focussed" while batting during the twilight phase of the third Test against England, which will be played under lights at the Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad.

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Rohit, who slammed a match-winning 161 in the second Test at Chepauk, had played India’s inaugural Day-Night Test against Bangladesh at the Eden Gardens in November 2019 but didn’t bat during the twilight phase.

"So far I have only heard that it kind of plays on a batsman's mind. I played just one pink ball Test against Bangladesh but didn't get to bat at that (twilight) time when sun was about to set but I have to try and understand what exactly happens during that time," Rohit said during a virtual press conference on Sunday (February 21).

"It's obviously a little challenging, the weather and light suddenly change. You have to be extra cautious and focussed, you need to talk to yourself. All batters are aware of these challenges. We just need to be mindful of the situation and play accordingly."

Moreover, Rohit is also concerned about adjusting to the lights and surroundings while fielding in the renovated Sardar Patel Stadium.

"Whenever you play in a new stadium, there's always a challenge to get used to the lights. Tomorrow we will be practising under the lights so the focus will be on getting used to those lights and seats because the seats are new and they will be shiny," he said.

Keeping in mind the ICC World Test Championship final, the remaining two Tests between India and England hold great significance.

While the hosts need to win at least one more match and draw the other if they are to qualify for the final, England ought to win both the remaining games.

"Yes, of course we want to qualify, we want to be there in the (WTC) final but we still need to do a lot of things right to get there. When we are playing, the focus is only on what we need to do to win the game," Rohit said.

"There are little steps which we need to take before we reach the final. It's too far ahead still. It's very important to stay in the moment. It is important to stay in the present and focus on the job at hand."

(With PTI inputs)

By Salman Anjum - 22 Feb, 2021

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