Rohit Sharma left stumped by New York pitch days ahead of Pakistan game, says 'I don't know what to expect'

The drop-in pitches in New York have seen a few low-scoring affairs already. Bowlers have had assistance from the pitch and conditions making strokeplay tough for the batters. Indian skipper Rohit Sharma was troubled early on too and after getting dropped in the first over he went on to score a half-century against Ireland. After India’s comprehensive eight-wicket win over Ireland, Rohit revealed that he does not what to expect from the pitch that will be used for the high-voltage clash against Pakistan at the same venue. 
 

“I don't know what to expect from the pitch but we will prepare as if conditions are going to be like that. That will be a game where all XI of us need to come together and contribute. It was scratchy but good to spend time in the middle, hopefully we can do the same,” Rohit said in the post-match presentation.
 

Rohit scored 52 runs from 37 balls including four fours and three sixes. He returned to the dressing room retired hurt during the drinks break. “Just a little sore,” he said about the blow he took to his arm in an attempt to play an unorthodox shot. 

ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma provides update on his injury that made him leave the field retired hurt against Ireland
 

Pacers instead of spinners

Rohit feels that playing with four spinners is not possible on these pitches and there is a need to have more pace-bowling options in the side.
 

“New ground, new venue, wanted to see what's it like to play on. I don't think the pitch settled down, there was enough there for the bowlers. Good to get the points. Stick to your basics, think about Test match bowling. Arshdeep can swing the ball into the right-handers and that set the tone. Don't think we can play four spinners here. If the conditions are there for the seamers, we wanted them in the squad. The spinners will play their part later in the tournament. We are open to making changes to the team's needs,” he added. 
 

ALSO READ: Rohit Sharma becomes first ever batter in international cricket to achieve this feat, surpasses Babar Azam too with 37-ball 52

Bumrah happy with bowler-friendly pitch

Meanwhile, India's pace-bowling spearhead Jasprit Bumrah who was adjudged 'Player of the match' was happy with the pitch.
 

“Coming from India, with the ball seaming around, I wouldn't complain when there's help for bowlers. In this format you have to adapt to the conditions, you have to be proactive. Trying to stick to the plans and trying to go back to what has worked for me. You always want to cover all the bases in these conditions. You got to be prepared, very happy with the outing today,” Bumrah said. 
 

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