India vs New Zealand ODI series: Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma prepare for the contest as Cheteshwar Pujara backs Kohli to score a century and predicts a 2-2 result
New Delhi: Team India has stepped up its preparations for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand, starting November 4. Veteran batters Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have grabbed the spotlight ahead of the series, with fans closely following their preparations and reunion. Meanwhile, former India batter Cheteshwar Pujara has made an interesting prediction, backing Kohli over Rohit to score a century during the series.
Kohli and Rohit’s Reunion Excites Fans
A video showing Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma meeting ahead of the ODI series has caught the attention of cricket fans. Their reunion has sparked excitement among supporters, who continue to admire the bond between the two experienced campaigners.
Both players have played crucial roles in India’s success over the years. They will now look to guide the team with their experience as India prepare to take on New Zealand under the leadership of Shubman Gill.
Shubman Gill Steps Up Preparations at Eden Park
Meanwhile, captain Shubman Gill intensified his preparations at Auckland’s Eden Park. The Indian skipper spent nearly three hours working on his batting and fielding skills. Spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule also monitored his practice session.
Gill faced several deliveries in the nets and worked on his catching through dedicated fielding drills. KL Rahul also focused on his batting and wicketkeeping skills.
Virat Kohli, on the other hand, opted for a gym session instead of batting practice in the nets. Rohit Sharma and Ruturaj Gaikwad also stayed indoors and followed their individual preparation routines.
Pujara Backs Kohli to Score a Century
Former India batter Cheteshwar Pujara has backed Virat Kohli to score a century ahead of Rohit Sharma in the upcoming series. Speaking on JioHotstar, Pujara explained that Kohli’s position at number three gives him a better opportunity to build his innings and convert a good start into a big score.
He also pointed out that Rohit usually adopts an aggressive approach during the powerplay. New Zealand’s conditions could present a different challenge for the Indian opener.
Pujara also considered their recent performances against the West Indies. Rohit scored 225 runs in three innings during the previous ODI series, while Kohli accumulated 168 runs. Kohli also produced an impressive unbeaten 139-run knock in the opening match.
Pujara Predicts a 2-2 Series Result
Pujara has predicted that India and New Zealand could finish the five-match ODI series with a 2-2 scoreline. He believes India could perform strongly in the first three matches, while the final two games might test the visitors.
The former batter also highlighted the importance of team combinations, possible changes and weather conditions in New Zealand.
With the opening ODI scheduled for November 4, all eyes will remain on Kohli, Rohit and captain Shubman Gill. Indian fans will hope that their experienced stars deliver strong performances and help India begin the series on a winning note.
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