‘Are bhook lagi hogi usko’ – Fans react as Rohit Sharma’s unexpected exit from field after 10 overs sparks injury concerns during ODI World Cup 2023 clash

The 21st match of the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023 is being played between India and New Zealand at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala on Sunday, October 22. Indian skipper Rohit Sharam won the toss and elected to field first as he thought that the dew might come during the 2nd innings.

Meanwhile, during the first innings of the match, Rohit Sharma left the field due to a finger injury sustained while attempting a sliding stop to prevent a boundary hit by Daryl Mitchell at mid-off, marking the last ball of the initial powerplay. With vice-captain Hardik Pandya sidelined due to an ankle injury from the previous week, KL Rahul assumed captaincy in Rohit’s absence.

In terms of lineup changes, Rohit disclosed two alterations, with Suryakumar Yadav and Mohammed Shami replacing the injured Hardik Pandya and Shardul Thakur. Regarding the New Zealand team, they maintained their lineup, with Tom Latham leading in place of the injured Kane Williamson.

Shubman Gill’s brilliant record against New Zealand

The Blackcaps have quietly and confidently progressed through the tournament, securing a significant victory over defending champions England on the opening day. Despite limited contributions from Williamson and Tim Southee, New Zealand remains unbeaten with four wins.

However, New Zealand faces a significant challenge in Shubman Gill, who has a strong track record against them. In his last six innings against New Zealand, he achieved scores of 50, 45*, 13, 208, 40*, and 112. With a maiden World Cup half-century to his name, he aims to make a crucial impact at the top of the batting order.

India (Playing XI): Rohit Sharma(c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul(w), Suryakumar Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj

New Zealand (Playing XI): Devon Conway, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham(w/c), Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner, Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, Trent Boult

Here’s how fans reacted: