As the cricketing world gears up for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the spotlight is invariably on match-ups that could define the tournament.
One such fascinating contest is between Indian captain Rohit Sharma and the bowlers from the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).
Known for his sublime touch and ability to dismantle bowling attacks, Sharma’s encounter with RCB’s bowling unit could be the highlight of the tournament.
Here’s a detailed look at three RCB bowlers who have the skill set to challenge and potentially outwit Rohit Sharma.
Josh Hazlewood
Josh Hazlewood, the Australian fast bowler, has been a mainstay in RCB’s bowling attack. His accuracy, coupled with his ability to swing the ball both ways, makes him a formidable opponent.
Against a player like Rohit Sharma, known for his aggressive starts, Hazlewood’s strategy could revolve around maintaining a tight line and length, forcing Sharma to play defensively or make a mistake.
Hazlewood’s record in international cricket speaks volumes about his prowess. His ability to bowl long spells with minimal room for error can tire out even the best of batsmen over time.
For Rohit, who thrives on setting the pace early in the innings, Hazlewood might employ a plan where he bowls fuller lengths to invite drives, only to swing the ball away or nip it back in.
This could lead to edges or lbw dismissals, scenarios where Hazlewood has historically excelled.
Moreover, Hazlewood’s experience in the subcontinent conditions, where the ball can reverse swing, could add another layer of difficulty for Sharma, especially in the later stages of an innings.
Lungi Ngidi
South African pacer Lungi Ngidi, with his express pace and bouncy deliveries, could be a real threat to Sharma.
Ngidi’s ability to extract bounce from any surface could be particularly challenging for Sharma, who sometimes struggles with short-pitched deliveries.
Ngidi’s strategy might involve peppering Sharma with short balls, making him uncomfortable and possibly inducing a mistake.
Ngidi’s seam position and release make him unpredictable. He can deliver balls that can either climb sharply or keep low, adding to the complexity of facing him.
For Sharma, who prefers balls in his arc to play his drives, Ngidi could mix up his deliveries, keeping some fuller to lure him into playing his shots, only to surprise him with a sharp bouncer.
His performance in the IPL has shown he can be a clutch performer under pressure, which could be crucial in a high-stakes tournament like the Champions Trophy.
Moreover, Ngidi’s knack for picking up wickets in the powerplay could be vital.
If he manages to dismiss Sharma early, it could set a different tone for the match, putting pressure on the rest of the Indian batting lineup.
Liam Livingstone
While primarily recognized for his explosive batting, Liam Livingstone’s off-spin could be an underutilized weapon against Sharma.
Livingstone has shown in various T20 leagues, including the IPL, that he can bowl with both control and guile.
Against Sharma, who has shown mixed results against spin, Livingstone could employ a mix of flighted deliveries and quicker ones to disrupt his rhythm.
Livingstone’s strategy might involve bowling from around the wicket to cramp Sharma for room, especially if the pitch offers any turn or grip.
His variations, like the off-break and the occasional leg-spinner, could keep Sharma guessing.
The key for Livingstone would be to maintain a good length, not allowing Sharma to step out and dominate, but also not bowling too full where Sharma can play his drives.
Furthermore, Livingstone’s part-time bowling often comes in the middle overs, a phase where Sharma could be looking to accelerate.
Here, Livingstone’s ability to bowl with both attacking and defensive strategies could either slow down Sharma’s scoring rate or force a rash shot.
His experience in Indian conditions would give him an edge, knowing exactly how to use the pitch to his advantage.
In Summary
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 promises to be a battleground where skill, strategy, and experience will clash in spectacular fashion.
For Rohit Sharma, facing the likes of Hazlewood, Ngidi, and Liam Livingstone would not just be about countering their bowling but also about adapting to their varied styles and plans.
Each of these RCB bowlers brings something unique to the table – Hazlewood’s precision, Ngidi’s pace and bounce, and Livingstone’s deceptive spin.
If Sharma can navigate through these challenges, it will be a testament to his class and adaptability. However, should any of these bowlers find their mark, it could lead to one of the defining moments of the tournament.
For fans, this match-up will be a chess game of cricket, where every over could pivot the game’s momentum.
As we look forward to this encounter, one thing is clear: cricket enthusiasts are in for a treat with such high-caliber contests in the offing.
To Be Noted – India will be playing their all matches in dubai, with Bangladesh, New Zealand, Pakistan and in the other group Australia, England, Afghanistan and South Africa.
Rohit Sharma might not face these 3 bowlers but if it happens then Rohit Sharma might face some difficulties while facing these bowlers.
