India’s top three need to increase their strike rate – Harbhajan Singh

Former India’s veteran spinner Harbhajan Singh has urged India’s top three batters – Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and Virat Kohli – to increase their strike rate. India once again adopted a sedate approach in the T20 World Cup, which led to its downfall.

Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul scored at a run rate of six in the PowerPlay overs, which was not good enough. Rohit Sharma struggled throughout the tournament while KL Rahul also couldn’t deliver when it mattered the most in the semifinal against England.

Virat Kohli finished as the top run-getter of the tournament as he scored 296 runs in six matches at an average of 98.67 and a strike rate of 136.41.

The Turbanator feels India should take a leaf out of England’s book and follow their aggressive approach in the T20I format.

“The approach has to change in the T20 format. The first six overs are important. If that doesn’t happen you will be dependent on Hardik or Surya for scoring 50 off 20. If they don’t fire, you will end up with a below-par total.

“England changed their approach and they have won two World Cups. T20 has to be played like T20 not like ODIs,” the veteran of 103 Tests, told PTI.

“All the top three (Rohit, Virat, KL) need to do is increase their strike rate. It is tough when you bat at 110 or 120 strike and try to make 180. They have to score at least 9 runs per over in the first 10-12 overs.”

After the T20 World Cup, many feel it is time for veterans like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to step away from the shortest format of the game. However, Bhajji feels he is no one to comment on the same as it will be the players’ personal call.

“I am no one to comment whether they would want to play or not. They are quality players if they can remain fit why not, provided the approach is different. Players can’t be changed overnight, the approach has to change.”

Harbhajan noted Hardik Pandya will be the right option to lead India in the T20I form if Rohit Sharma decides to hang his boots.

“If it happens, Hardik is the right option.”

India is currently taking on New Zealand in three-match ODI series.