New Delhi, May 31: They are two icons of the game. They have played and led their teams against each other on a number of occasions. They are expected to know each other's strength and weaknesses.
Team India captain Rohit Sharma and Bangladesh seasoned all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan have played enough cricket against each other. So if either of them has an opinion about the other, that definitely will have lot of acceptability.
Ahead of their warm-up match against India, experienced Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib has heaped praise on Men in Blue captain Rohit saying that he can change the result of a match single-handedly.
Asian neighbours are scheduled to face each other in the warm-up match at Nassau County Cricket Stadium in New York on Saturday.
"I think the way he led India in the last few years was terrific. He has a tremendous record as a captain. I think all the players respect him as a leader of the team and he's someone who can take the game away from the opponent single-handedly," Shakib said in a Star Sports video posted on X.
On the other hand, Rohit said adapting to the US conditions will be important for them before playing their first game against Ireland on June 5.
“We’re looking to understand the conditions more importantly (before the tournament proper) as we haven’t been here before. (We will) try and make the most of the conditions, get used to what it’s going to be like on June 5 when we play our first game," ICC quoted Rohit as saying.
"It’s just about getting into that rhythm of getting the feel of the ground, pitch and stuff like that," he added.
The opening batter is looking forward to witnessing fans in the stadiums as the USA, along with West Indies, hosts its first-ever cricket World Cup.
"People in New York will be very interested in coming and watching the World Cup, with the World Cup happening for the first time here. I'm pretty sure all the fans across the various teams are quite excited and looking forward to this tournament. And also as players can't wait to get started," Rohit said.
Indian fans would be eager to see Rohit back at his best and win games single-handedly. May Shakib's words come true more often during ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024. (With IANS support)
