It's our job now to pass on the right message – Rohit Sharma

As India spoiled Australia’s plans of a clean sweep in the ODI series, Rohit Sharma bagged the Player of the Series award for his tally of 202 runs, including his match-winning century in Sydney.

Talking at the post-match presentation, Rohit Sharma opened up on the conditions and how India countered them in Sydney. He also shed some light on his preparations ahead of the series while praising the team which is in transition, bringing forth a flurry of new faces.

Explaining the conditions and the countermeasures those were deployed, Sharma said, “That's what you expect in Australia. It's not going to be easy, the bowlers are quality. You've got to understand the situation, understand the condition and see what best you can do. And that is what I was trying to do whenever I had the opportunity in the middle.”

Shedding light on his preparations, Sharma added, “I haven't played for a long time, I had good prep before coming in here. I was slightly confident in my head about how I would go in this tournament. Although, you know, we couldn't win the series, but we'll take a lot of positives.”

He then shifted his focus to the current Indian team, adding, “It's still a very young team that we have. A lot of guys who haven't been to Australia. When I came for the first time in this squad, I remember how the seniors around me were there to help us. And it's our job now to make sure that we pass on the right message. Never easy travelling abroad and playing cricket. So, whatever little experience that we got, it's important to pass on that and make sure they handle it pretty well. The guys are pretty talented. It's just about understanding how they want to play.”

Highlighting his bond with Australia, Sharma further stated, “When you come to places like this, you need some game plan in your mind before you start. It is important to do that. I've come here so many times. I still go back to the basics of playing cricket. And then, that is something that I feel that I need to pass on to these guys. I love playing in Australia and in general, Sydney.”

He eventually concluded with a message for Sydney, stating, “It's a great ground, great crowd, great pitch as well. So, when you come to places like this, you want to challenge yourself as a batter, as a player. And that is what I expected. I never thought for one second that it is going to be easy. I love doing what I do. And I hope I continue to do that.”