Team India put on an all-round show to register a clinical 10-wicket victory over England in the first ODI at Kennington Oval, London on Tuesday (July 12).
Riding on Jasprit Bumrah’s career-best ODI figures (6 for 19 in 7.1 overs), India bundled out the hosts for a paltry 110 in 25.2 overs.
WATCH – Sanjana Ganesan trolls England team after hubby Jasprit Bumrah decimates hosts in 1st ODI
In reply, the visitors overhauled the target in just 18.4 overs on the back of an opening stand worth 114 runs between skipper Rohit Sharma (76* off 58 balls) and Shikhar Dhawan (31* off 54 balls).
Speaking after the game, Rohit lauded his bowlers for exploiting the conditions well in the ODI series opener.
"Looking at the overhead conditions and the pitch, the toss was a right call to make. We used the conditions upfront really well. We never worry about the conditions because we have got the guys who can just come out and use those conditions. There was some swing and seam upfront and we exploited them well.
"When you play in such conditions, you have to understand the assistance and have field placements accordingly. We knew our bowlers could swing the ball both ways and hence had that kind of field," he said at the post-match presentation ceremony.
Rohit was in full praise of his opening partner Dhawan, who was playing an ODI match after five months.
"Shikhar and me understand each other quite well, except for the first ball where there was that misjudgement. He is playing ODIs after a long time. We know what he brings to the table for us. Experienced player and he has done well for us in the past in these conditions."
Rohit Sharma’s explosive knock was studded with 6 fours and 5 sixes. The right-hander used the hook and the pull shots to perfection during his innings.
Talking about the same, Rohit said: "The hook is a high risk shot, I understand that, but as long as it comes out right, I am happy."
(With Cricbuzz inputs)