Indian vice-captain Rohit Sharma has named Australia’s pace ace Josh Hazlewood as the toughest bowler of the current era. Rohit, who became India’s opener across all formats in 2019 after a fruitful season with the Virat Kohli-led side admitted that he was troubled by Australian pace ace Brett Lee and veteran South African speed merchant Dale Steyn during his initial playing days in the international circuit.
Speaking during Star Sports show – Cricket Connected, Rohit hailed Aussie speedster Hazlewood and name-dropped him as someone whom he doesn’t want to face when it comes to playing the longest format of the game. Nicknamed Hitman for his explosive batting style, Rohit credited Hazlewood for remaining disciplined and highlighted his ability to maintain good line and length.
“Currently, someone whom I don’t want to face in Test cricket would be Josh Hazlewood because he’s disciplined and does not move away from that length. He does not give you loose balls,” Rohit said. The Indian star batsman who recently turned 33 asserted that Hazlewood remains one of the best from the current lot and he will have to be mentally prepared while facing the Australian speed merchant in next tour Down Under.
“I have watched him enough to understand that. I know for a fact that if I have to go to Australia to play a Test, then I have to be mentally prepared to be disciplined while facing Josh,” said the Hitman, who has three double centuries to his name in the 50-over format.
