[Saba Sports News] Rahul Dravid and Rohit Sharma, with contrasting batting styles in ODIs – Dravid’s steady, rotational play and Rohit’s aggressive approach – form a harmonious unit when combined. Dravid’s career strike rate of 71 contrasts sharply with Rohit’s 91, rising to nearly 125 in the current World Cup. Their differing styles complement each other, showcasing the synergy of opposites.
On the eve of the World Cup final, Rohit paid homage to Dravid’s impact on Indian cricket. Rohit praised Dravid’s support for player freedom and clarity in roles, highlighting how Dravid’s backing during challenging times, particularly after the T20 World Cup semi-final loss, demonstrated his leadership.
“What he has done for Indian cricket is massive. And he also feels that he wants to be part of this big occasion. And it’s for us to do it for him.
“There’s one thing for me to think about and the other thing for the coach to not agree to certain things. Clearly, looking at how Rahul bhai himself has played his cricket and how I am playing these days, obviously it’s quite contrasting. For him to agree and give me that freedom and liberty to go and play the way we want to play, that says a lot about him.”
Rohit spoke of the critical trust between coach and captain, essential for their successful campaign. He appreciated Dravid’s clarity in defining players’ roles, contributing to the team’s near-perfect execution of their game plan.
“If you have decided something we have to go and implement that,” the captain said. “Obviously, the roles have been given to certain individuals as to what their roles are for this team and what can benefit the team. And I think 99.9% we played that brand of cricket. 1% that 0.1% I have taken out because you cannot always be perfect. That’s why I have just taken out that 0.1% but I am very pleased with the messaging that Myself and Rahul has given to the boys and boys have responded to that pretty well.”
Dravid’s influence extends beyond tactics; he provides players with a sense of security, supporting them in tough times. His backing of players like Shreyas Iyer, who faced initial struggles, has been pivotal in transitioning the team from the 2019 to the 2023 campaigns.
Rohit also delved into his World Cup strategy, explaining his readiness to adapt his aggressive style as needed, a tactic that has garnered him 550 runs at a strike rate of 124.15. This approach has been instrumental in India’s dominant performances, showcasing the effective blend of Dravid’s and Rohit’s cricketing philosophies.