[Exclusive] Great players never leave their USP shots: Lalchand Rajput

All eyes will be on batting mainstays Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli as the Indian side prepares for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Finding their rhythm across formats has been difficult for both players in recent months. However, in the second ODI on February 9 at Barabati Stadium in Cuttack, India’s captain Rohit Sharma hushed his detractors with an outstanding century against England.

As bowlers continue to take advantage of his weakness, Kohli’s frequent dismissals beyond the off-stump have been a serious worry. Lalchand Rajput, a former Indian cricket player and U19 coach, has emphasised that exceptional players will always use their distinctive and hallmark shots. Rajput responded to the criticism of the pair’s performance, namely their dismissive style.

Since those are the shots that have earned him the most runs, each player has a USP, and they won’t reduce it.

As a coach, I won’t advise them to reduce those either. However, when things go wrong, everything goes against you. For example, if you try to hit a shot, it goes to the fielder, or someone makes a spectacular catch. They will never abandon their USP shots, though, since they are excellent players. The great thing about this game, he told, is that once they get rolling, everything will fall into place. “I am confident that they will return stronger,” he said.

Adil Rashid’s victory over Virat Kohli is still going strong.

During the second ODI against England in Cuttack, Indian captain Rohit scored an outstanding performance of 119 off just 90 balls, providing the ideal response to his detractors. He reached his first ODI century in just 76 balls since October 2023. Twelve fours and seven sixes were hammered by Rohit.

Despite Rohit’s impressive performance, Kohli’s troubles persisted as he was removed early after trying to drive a ball against Adil Rashid. Pitcher Phil Salt, however, caught the 36-year-old when he got a slight edge. Kohli and thousands of spectators were disappointed after England successfully overturned the on-field umpire’s “not out” verdict via DRS.