India has secured a 4-1 victory over England in the T20 series, with the final match at Wankhede resulting in a significant 150-run win for Team India. The team’s focus has now shifted to the upcoming three-match ODI series and the Champions Trophy against England, scheduled to start on February 6 and February 19, respectively. In light of this, coach Gautam Gambhir has outlined the team’s approach to the Champions Trophy.
Gautam Gambhir stated that the Indian team will adopt an aggressive playing style, regardless of the format. Following the fifth T20 match, he emphasized the team’s intention to play high-risk cricket, saying, “We want to play more and more aggressive. We want to entertain the audience and are trying to play high-risk cricket.” This approach suggests that the team is preparing to take a bold and dynamic stance in the upcoming competitions.
In discussing key players, Gambhir also shared his expectations for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Although they may not have performed as strongly in Test matches, both Kohli and Sharma are highly regarded in ODI cricket. With India having played only three ODIs in 2023, the team is now set to return to the field after a seven-month hiatus. Gambhir expressed his hopes for the duo’s performance, saying, “We have 2 quality players (Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma), whose ODI records are excellent. Hopefully they will be able to do well, will be able to play cricket in an aggressive as well as cricket.” The first ODI match against England is scheduled for February 6, and Team India’s first match in the Champions Trophy will be against Bangladesh on February 20.