'No problem between Shikhar and Rohit'- Indian Cricket Board selector rubbishes rumors of rift between Indian openers

Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma are one of the best ODI openers of all time. In terms of sheer numbers, the two rank fourth among the highest opening partnership runs in the 50-over format. In 114 matches, the two have collectively made 5125 runs with the highest partnership of 210.

Even off the field, the two have a great camaraderie between them. From everything, it seems like the two have a good relationship amongst them.  A recent report, however, suggested a rift between the two Indian batters arising from their batting approach.

Reportedly, Rohit Sharma wanted everyone to play an attacking brand of cricket whereas Dhawan likes to take his time and plays slow at the start. This has, as reports say, created animosity between them. 

The rumour became so big that a selector in the Indian cricket board had to come ahead and address it. While answering the question, the selector rubbished the claim and said that there was no rift between the two star India batters.

He also added that the selectors will have a discussion with Shikhar after the Zimbabwe tour regarding his future in the Indian team. The selector added that if a need arises for Dhawan to change his batting approach, head coach Rahul Dravid and Vikram Rathore will be there. 

“There is no problem between Shikhar and Rohit. It’s just that both have different ideas. It is not a bad thing. But yes, we will have a sit down with Shikhar probably after the Zimbabwe tour on understanding his future plans. If he needs to change his batting approach, Vikram and Rahul are there to talk to him. We won’t interfere,” said an official from the team to InsideSport. 

Quick scoring a demand of the game

The official said that getting a quick start is the demand of modern-day game and the players are asked to change their approach because of it.

“There is no reason to panic. Shikhar is doing just fine. Yes, the demand of the game is now such that you will have to be quick off the blocks, With KL Rahul, Shubman and Ishan around, he will need to understand that demand. I am sure, he will do just fine” the selector added.