Sharma reveals how he changed his approach in SA win

Centurion Rohit Sharma has admitted he was forced to change his approach due to the conditions during India’s win over South Africa.

Sharma scored a fantastic unbeaten 122 to help India beat the Proteas at the Ageas Bowl by six wickets.

Chasing down 228, India lost Shikhar Dhawan (8) and captain Virat Kohli, who was dismissed for just 18 after a brilliant catch from wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock off Andile Phehlukwayo’s bowling.

However, Sharma, who was dropped by David Miller on 107, batted throughout the innings and his unbeaten 122 ensured India reached their target with 2.3 overs remaining, finishing on 230-4.

Speaking after the victory, the match-winner revealed he had to change his approach due to the conditions.

“I couldn’t play my natural game, you have to see what the ball was doing, certain shots I love to play I had to cut down and try to leave as many balls as possible,” he was quoted as saying by BBC Sport.

“It was overcast you don’t sweat too much like you do in England. I had to play out the overs and make sure I got the job done.

“Certain shots that I love to play, I had to cut down and make sure that I play close to the body. I had to try and leave as many balls as possible in the initial spell. It was not a typical Rohit Sharma innings.”