Rohit Sharma and Harsha Bhogle
Photo : Rohit Sharma/Harsha Bhogle - X
Renowned commentator and cricket expert, Harsha Bhogle engaged himself in a friendly exchange of words with captain Rohit Sharma after India lost the 1st Test of the 3-match series to New Zealand on Day 5 at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday, 20th October. After India were dismissed for a paltry 46 runs in the 1st innings, Rohit uttered 'Chalao talwaar (Start your swordplay with words) while addressing the press as a fun take on the questions, which were about to come.
The 37-year is known for delivering catchy one-liners, which has even gone onto become social media memes. So after the match, when Rohit walked to Bhogle for the post-match presentation, the 63-year old assured him that he is not going bombard him with questions by saying, ”Yaha koi talwaar nahi chalegi (there won't be any swordplay here).
After the dismal batting display, which saw 5 batters getting out on a duck, New Zealand in reply put up 402 runs on the board with a century from Rachin Ravindra (134). With renewed determination, India came down to bat and showed intent of a comeback with half-centuries from Rohit Sharma (52) and Virat Kohli (70). It was Sarafarz Khan, who lead the charge with a brilliant 150. It was almost a double delight for the hosts as Pant missed out his ton by just a run.
The home side went onto take the score to 462 with a target of 107. A target like this is never enough, when you are facing a team like New Zealand.
The visitors did lose their openers in the run-chase but Rachin Ravindra again along with Will Young took their side over the finishing line with a 8-wicket victory.
''It was a good effort with the bat in the second innings. We didn't bat well in the first innings. So knew what was ahead and couple of guys stood out. When you are 350 behind you can't think too much about it. just got to see the ball and bat. Couple of partnerships were really exciting to watch and got us back in the game. We could have easily been bowled out cheaply but proud of the effort. Everyone is on the edge of the seat when those two (Sarfaraz and Pant) are playing'', Rohit told after the match.
The ex Mumbai Indians captain said that his team can spring a comeback, like the way they did it against England, earlier this year in March in a 5-match series.
''We will take the positives and move forward. There are guys who have been in this situation before. We lost a game against England and won four games after that. Two Test matches to go and we know exactly what is needed from each one of us. We will try and put our best game forward'', he further added.
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