India captain Rohit Sharma emphasized on Wednesday the significance of remaining calm and simple in their approach as they prepare for the T20 World Cup 2024 semi-final against England in Guyana on June 27.
He said the team had wrestled with a dread of failure in past matches. India is keen to seek revenge in this semifinal match, hoping to avenge their humiliating 10-wicket setback at the hands of England in the 2022 edition of the competition, held at the Adelaide Oval.
"It is a bit of both. We want to treat this as a normal game. We don't want to be talking about that it is a semifinal. We are enjoying each other's company and we need to carry on. It is a knockout game. If you think too much it doesn't help,” Rohit said at the press conference.
"Honestly not a lot has changed since 2022. We have tried to play with a free mind, T20, and ODIs as well. It all depends on the conditions which were challenging throughout the tournament here.
We want to be a smart cricket team. I have kept things simple personally and for the players as well. We have done well with role clarity and rely on the players making good decisions on the field. Everyone knows they need to get the job done. We don't need to change from 2022 to 2024," Rohit added.
Rohit was instrumental in India's victory over Australia, striking an explosive 92 runs off only 41 deliveries during the crucial Super Eight phase encounter. The skipper attributed his repeated success to being calm under pressure.
"It is important to stay cool and calm. Staying calm has worked for me over the years. Sometimes you can lose your cool as well. I am happy to let you do what you want but if is at the cost of the team then I won't let it happen. Indian cricket teams are always under pressure. Most of the guys are used to it,” he said.
Rohit Sharma, the captain, has not confirmed whether the team will include four spinners in the lineup. Kuldeep Yadav, a wrist spinner, and Akshar Patel have performed exceptionally well.
"We will see assess the conditions and then take a call on four spinners. We will see,” Rohit concluded.
(PTI inputs)
