India's young team approaches the World Cup semi-final against New Zealand unburdened by historical expectations, asserted skipper Rohit Sharma on Tuesday. Despite India's rich cricket history, including World Cup victories in 1983 and 2011, Sharma highlighted the current squad's focus on the present and future rather than dwelling on past glories.
"This team's beauty lies in its detachment from the past. Half of these players weren't even born when we won our first World Cup in 1983, ... half of them weren't even playing cricket when we won the trophy again in 2011," Rohit revealed to Mumbai-based reporters.
He commended the team's commitment to staying grounded and concentrating on continual improvement. "The players involved are actively involved in both the current and upcoming situations. Their discussions revolve around how they can enhance their skills, contribute to the team, and identify areas for improvement, rather than reminiscing about previous World Cup victories," Rohit emphasized.
The captain praised his team's ability to handle the pressure of representing a cricket-crazed nation, citing their impeccable record of nine wins in the group stage. However, we've managed this pressure exceptionally well in the last nine games," Rohit added.
Reflecting on the upcoming semi-final against New Zealand, a team that defeated India in the 2019 semi-finals, Rohit acknowledged the Kiwis as a formidable opponent. "New Zealand is perhaps the most disciplined team in terms of their game strategy. They play cricket intelligently and understand their opposition well. Having shared the field with many of our players in various stages and tournaments, they grasp the mentality of the opposition," he concluded.
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