Rohit Sharma backs Ravichandran Ashwin’s idea of early starts at the 2023 ODI World Cup

Team India along with with other teams are preparing for the upcoming ODI World Cup in 2023 in India. However, the Men in Blue had a good start to their preparation by winning the home ODI series against Sri Lanka. Now, they will start a three-match ODI series at home against the Kiwis.

However, the World Cup will happen during October and September. So, dew factors can play a huge role, especially in the day-night matches. Regarding that, team India’s prime spinner, Ravichandran Ashwin came up with a demand for an early start of games in the tournament. Now, ahead of the New Zealand series, Rohit Sharma supported the spinner.

“I like that idea of an early start, but I don’t know if it’s possible,” - Rohit Sharma

Regarding the matter, Ravichandran Ashwin said: “The quality difference between the teams isn’t coming through. Dew is narrowing that gap if you happen to lose the toss. My suggestion – or rather my opinion – for the World Cup is to look at what venues we are playing in, and at what times. Why shouldn’t we start matches at 11.30am during the World Cup? Won’t all cricket fans prioritise the World Cup and watch matches at 11.30?”  

Now, on the eve of the NZ series opener, Rohit Sharma said that he likes the idea. But, only broadcasters will decided what will be the best time for a match to happen in the World Cup. He said: “I mean, it is a good idea because it’s a World Cup, right? You don’t want to compromise too much on the toss factor and you want to take that completely away. I like that idea of an early start, but I don’t know if it’s possible.”

“The broadcasters will decide what time the game should start . But ideally you don’t want that sort of advantage in the game. You want to see good cricket being played without one side having the advantage of batting under lights with the dew. But those are the things that are not in your control. But I like the idea of an early start,” Rohit Sharma concluded.