After experiencing 11 consecutive coin-toss losses, Rohit Sharma enters the Champions Trophy final against New Zealand on Sunday, uncertain if this streak will continue. However, former Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin has made an unusual suggestion. Ashwin hopes Rohit will lose his 12th toss in a row, believing it would be mentally advantageous for India if New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner gets to decide the game’s start at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
‘In my view, India should not try to win the toss. I would prefer they lose it, allowing New Zealand to choose their preferred course of action. This could create a more challenging scenario for India initially. Overall, India should be comfortable regardless, as they have successfully defended and chased targets previously,’ Ashwin stated on his YouTube channel ‘Ash Ki Baat’.
Regarding his match prediction, Ashwin anticipates a closely fought contest, with India holding a marginal advantage due to their previous victory over New Zealand in the same tournament.
‘I would personally rate it as 54-46 in favor of India. Despite New Zealand’s bowlers having troubled India in the past, India remains a very formidable team,’ he added.
Ashwin also shared his insights on key individual battles for the final. For the veteran spin-bowling all-rounder, the duel between Kane Williamson and Ravindra Jadeja is the most captivating.
‘For cricket enthusiasts, the battle between Kane Williamson and Ravindra Jadeja is the most interesting. Williamson often adjusts his position towards leg stump when facing Jadeja, recognizing the challenge. He sometimes steps out to play a chip shot over the bowler or extra cover,’ he explained.
‘He also attempts to play the cut shot off the back foot. It’s a strategic game of cat and mouse. Kane Williamson aims to dominate Jadeja, while Jadeja varies his length and pace in response. They are like Tom and Jerry on the field. This particular contest could be decisive in determining the game’s outcome. The battle between Kane Williamson and Ravindra Jadeja is truly fascinating,’ he concluded.
‘Jadeja bowls quicker than a typical left-arm spinner. Playing the cut shot against Jadeja is difficult, and sweeping him conventionally is nearly impossible. While a slog sweep is an option, the traditional sweep is not viable against Jadeja.’
‘Jadeja’s advantage over Kane Williamson lies in his consistent pace against Williamson and the turn he generates. This is due to his excellent release, high release point, and the revolutions he imparts on the ball,’ he further elaborated.
