Rohit Sharma, one of India’s cricketing stalwarts, is renowned for his explosive batting prowess at the top of the order. However, in a surprising move, the Indian team management decided to promote him to No. 7 in One Day Internationals (ODIs) against West Indies in the 1st ODI.

This strategic decision left fans and pundits curious about the rationale behind this move. As the series progressed, Rohit’s presence at No. 7 showcased a different aspect of his cricketing acumen and exemplified his commitment to the team’s cause. This article delves into Rohit Sharma’s exceptional batting performance at No. 7 and the reasons behind the decision to bat him in this unfamiliar position.

Speaking after the match, Rohit Sharma said that he didn’t expect Kensington Oval track to deteriorate this quickly and also his decision to promote ODI specialists ahead of himself and Virat Kohli.

“I never thought the pitch would play like that, it was the team’s need to bowl first. The pitch had everything for seamers and spinners, our guys did well to restrict them to that score. I made my debut for India and was batting at number 7, reminded me of those days,” Rohit said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

On a slow pitch of the 1st ODI at Kensington Oval, which did have some spongy bounce, Rohit Sharma won the toss and chose to bowl first. His decision proved to be correct as the WI side was bowled out for 114 in 23 overs.

Kuldeep Yadav picked 4 wickets, while Ravindra Jadeja took three wickets as well.

In response, Ishan Kishan opened the batting with Shubman Gill and while Gill failed to come good, Ishan hammered a quick fifty. But the Carrebian bowlers, especially Gudakesh Motie bowled well and India soon found themselves losing wickets at regular intervals.

India lost 5 wickets to chase this small target. The allrounder Ravindra Jadeja (16*) and captain Rohit Sharma (12*) ensured India reached the target in 22.5 overs