Sanjay Bangar says Rohit Sharma’s century will give him leadership confidence ahead of Champions Trophy

Former Indian all-rounder Sanjay Bangar has said that Rohit Sharma’s century in the second ODI against England will add a shot to his arm as far as the leadership is concerned. Rohit has been under the scanner for his poor form in the recent past and thus the pressure was rising on him.

However, Rohit was able to silence his critics in style as he scored a majestic knock of 119 runs off just 90 balls in the second game. The Indian opener scored a dozen fours and seven sixes in his blistering knock as he batted at the top of his game.

Thus, he played an instrumental role in helping India chase down 305 runs with 33 balls and four wickets to spare.

“It was extremely necessary because the last two or three months were very challenging for him personally and how they went for the team as well. When you are the captain, all the questions are directed at you. You have to face a lot of criticism and you get as much appreciation when the team wins,” Sanjay Bangar said on Star Sports show Match Point.

“This is how the leadership role is. So a huge after-effect of this inning will be the leadership getting better. The burden will be removed from Rohit Sharma’s shoulders. A lot of clarity will come in his thinking. When he goes to bat or captain, he will make extremely clear and convincing decisions,” Bangar added.

The former Indian batting coach added Rohit took calculated risks after he got settled at the crease in the second game.

“Rohit Sharma also said in the post-match presentation that he analyzed in which phase when he had to hold back a little, which bowlers to target, and what the opposition bowlers were trying to do. It was a calculated assault but they were all cricketing shots,” he replied.

The cricketer-turned-commentator highlighted that Rohit looked in total control while scoring his 32nd ODI century.

“All the shots we saw in the first 10 overs, he was playing through the line with his top hand. Some of the shots he played late, like the leg glance, gave a lot of joy because that then gives the impression that he is in total control, and he looked in total control,” Bangar observed.

The final and third ODI between India and England will be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad on Wednesday.