Champions Trophy 2025 [WATCH]: Rohit Sharma playfully applauds local bowler’s in-swinging yorkers in Dubai

As the cricketing world gears up for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the Indian men’s cricket team is leaving no stone unturned in their preparations. The team, led by the charismatic Rohit Sharma, has been training rigorously at the ICC Cricket Academy in Dubai. Amidst the intense practice sessions, a light-hearted moment involving Rohit and a local fast bowler has caught the attention of fans worldwide.

Rohit Sharma’s playful banter with Awais Khan

During a training session under the Dubai lights, Rohit was seen engaging in some friendly banter with a local fast bowler, Awais Khan. The video, which has since gone viral, shows Rohit praising Awais for his ability to bowl inswinging yorkers.

Known for his calm demeanor and witty remarks, Rohit jokingly teased Awais, saying, “Class bowler. Aap humare joota… pair todne ki kosish kar rahe the inswinging yorker maar ke. Badiya bhai badiya. Aap log humko yaha help kar rahe ho, bada acha laga, thank you.”

Translated, Rohit’s words were a mix of appreciation and humour: “You were trying to break our shoes and feet with those inswinging yorkers. Well done, brother. You’ve been helping us here, and it feels great. Thank you.” This interaction not only highlighted Rohit’s down-to-earth nature but also showcased the camaraderie between the Indian team and the local support staff.

Here’s the video:

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The local talent who impressed the captain

Awais, the local fast bowler, became an overnight sensation after Rohit’s praise. His ability to consistently bowl inswinging yorkers, one of the most challenging deliveries in cricket, left the Indian skipper impressed. For a young bowler, earning recognition from a cricketing legend like Rohit is undoubtedly a career highlight.

This moment also underscores the importance of local talent and the role they play in supporting international teams during their training camps. Awais’s performance is a testament to the growing cricketing talent in the UAE, a region that has steadily emerged as a hub for the sport.

Rohit’s resurgence: A century to remember

Rohit’s form has been a topic of discussion among cricket enthusiasts. After a lean patch during the Test series against New Zealand and the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Rohit roared back to form with a scintillating century against England in the second ODI of the three-match series. His 119-run knock, which included 12 fours and 7 sixes, was a masterclass in aggressive yet calculated batting.

This century, his 32nd in ODIs, not only silenced his critics but also served as a reminder of his ability to dominate the best bowling attacks in the world. As India prepare for the Champions Trophy, Rohit’s form will be crucial to the team’s success.

India’s Champions Trophy campaign: High hopes and big expectations

India’s campaign in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy kicks off on February 20 against Bangladesh at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. With Rohit in charge, the team will aim to replicate their success in previous ICC tournaments. Rohit’s leadership and batting prowess were instrumental in India’s strong performances in the 2023 ODI World Cup and the 2024 T20 World Cup.

Fans and team management alike will be hoping that Rohit continues his red-hot form and leads India to another ICC trophy. If he can maintain his consistency and inspire his teammates, India will be strong contenders to lift the Champions Trophy, which is making a comeback after an eight-year hiatus.

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