Former Indian cricketer and commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has backed Indian captain Rohit Sharma to make a strong statement with his attacking batting in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Manjrekar, known for his sharp analysis, believes that Sharma’s ability to dominate bowlers early in the innings could be a defining factor for India in the tournament.
Rohit Sharma, who has been one of India’s most successful white-ball captains, has a history of delivering under pressure in ICC events. His aggressive style at the top of the order provides India with explosive starts, putting opposition bowlers under immense pressure. With the tournament being played in conditions that favor stroke-making, Sharma’s role as an opener becomes even more crucial.
Manjrekar has often praised Sharma’s technical ability and natural stroke play, particularly his ability to take on fast bowlers in the powerplay overs. He believes that in a high-stakes tournament like the Champions Trophy, Sharma will look to lead by example, setting the tone for the Indian batting lineup. His fearless approach has been a key aspect of India’s recent successes, and he will aim to continue that trend in the crucial matches ahead.
India’s campaign so far has seen Rohit Sharma provide strong starts, but his biggest test will come in the knockout stages, where experienced campaigners are expected to step up. With Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, and Shreyas Iyer forming the backbone of the middle order, a good start from Sharma can provide the platform for big totals.
Apart from his batting, Sharma’s captaincy will also be under scrutiny. Leading India in a high-intensity tournament requires sharp tactical awareness, and his ability to rotate bowlers and set aggressive fields has played a key role in India’s success. Having led India to the ODI World Cup final last year, Sharma understands the pressure of ICC tournaments and will be keen to lift his first ICC trophy as captain.
India’s fixtures in the Champions Trophy include key matches against Pakistan, England, and Australia, all of which will test Sharma’s leadership and batting prowess. His record against Pakistan in ICC tournaments has been impressive, and fans are eager to see if he can produce another match-winning knock against their arch-rivals.
Manjrekar’s prediction reflects the confidence many have in Sharma’s ability. If the Indian skipper finds his rhythm early in the innings, India could be a formidable force in the tournament. His approach in the first 10 overs will set the tone for the team’s batting performance, and an aggressive Sharma at the crease is always a positive sign for Indian cricket.
As the Champions Trophy progresses, all eyes will be on Rohit Sharma to deliver with the bat and lead his team to glory. Fans and analysts alike are expecting an explosive display from the Indian captain, and if he delivers, India’s chances of lifting the trophy will increase significantly.