India’s ODI series against England ended on a disappointing note, with the visitors suffering another series defeat despite putting up a spirited fight in the final game. While several Indian batters produced encouraging performances during the chase, former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan highlighted one aspect that he believes could make a significant difference going forward.

At the same time, Pathan reserved special praise for veteran opener Rohit Sharma, who answered his critics with a memorable century under immense pressure. His comments have now sparked discussion among fans as India shifts its focus to the upcoming international assignments.

Irfan Pathan highlights one concern for Shubman Gill

Speaking on his YouTube channel after the third ODI, Pathan reflected on India’s batting effort during the chase of 388 and pointed to the fitness of Shubman Gill as an area that requires attention. Gill played a fighting knock of 77 off 84 deliveries, striking 10 fours and a six while trying to keep India’s chase on track.

However, during the innings, the skipper appeared to struggle physically and was seen stretching his legs after experiencing discomfort at the crease. Pathan felt such interruptions can affect both the batter’s rhythm and the team’s momentum during an important run chase.

“The plan was fine. Shubman Gill also played well. No doubt he played a good knock, but he will have to work on his fitness. If he is in trouble again and again, it will break the momentum. He will have to give more importance to this,” Pathan said.

This was not the first time Gill faced fitness issues during the series. In the opening ODI, he had retired hurt after scoring 80 due to severe cramps before returning later in the innings.

Also READ: Top 5 players with most ODI hundreds in a visiting country ft. Rohit Sharma

Pathan heaps praise on Rohit Sharma’s brilliant comeback

While discussing India’s batting, Pathan also applauded Rohit for producing a captain’s knock in the third ODI after enduring a difficult start to the series. The Indian opener came into the match under intense scrutiny following low scores in the first two ODIs and growing speculation surrounding his future. However, Rohit responded in emphatic fashion, smashing a magnificent 138 off just 110 deliveries, an innings that featured 17 boundaries and five sixes.

Pathan admired the way Rohit handled the pressure and believed the experienced batter never looked affected by the outside noise.

“Given the amount of pressure that was on Rohit, it never looked even once that he was under pressure. He batted brilliantly. He was like a diamond that shines more under pressure. He is the diamond of Indian cricket,” Pathan said.

Although Rohit’s superb century was not enough to prevent India’s defeat, his innings helped him achieve multiple milestones and served as a timely reminder of his class ahead of India’s upcoming assignments.

Also READ: ENG vs IND: Shubman Gill addresses Rohit Sharma’s retirement rumours after Lord’s ODI