Rohit Sharma’s Statement on Dropped Catch of Axar Patel’s Hat-Trick Ball
India has started its Champions Trophy 2025 campaign with a victory. In the very first match, Team India, under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, defeated Bangladesh by 6 wickets. India secured this win thanks to Mohammed Shami’s lethal bowling and Shubman Gill’s century. However, one of the biggest talking points of the match was Axar Patel missing out on a hat-trick due to a dropped catch by Rohit Sharma.
Axar Patel was bowling the 9th over of Bangladesh’s innings when he took two wickets in two consecutive balls. On the third ball, he had another opportunity to complete his hat-trick, but Rohit, who was standing at first slip, dropped the catch, denying Axar his hat-trick.
What Rohit Sharma Said About the Dropped Catch
After India’s victory, Rohit Sharma reflected on the game, saying:
“As the match progressed, different thoughts were running through my mind. But the players in this dressing room are very experienced. KL Rahul and Gill did a great job. It’s difficult to judge the pitch after just one match, but it’s important to adapt to the conditions. As a team, we have understood the situation here very well.”
Speaking about Shami and Gill’s performance, Rohit added:
“I am very happy for Shami. We have been waiting for this for a long time. We know the kind of player he is and how crucial he is for the team. When the team needs it, we need players like him who take responsibility and deliver. As for Gill, his innings didn’t surprise us at all. It was great to see him play till the end.”
On Dropping Axar Patel’s Hat-Trick Catch
Rohit Sharma humorously addressed the dropped catch incident, saying:
“I will take Axar to dinner tomorrow! No, actually, it was an easy catch. Considering my experience fielding in the slips, I should have taken it. But these things happen. Credit to Hriday and Zakir for the way they built their partnership.”
Axar Patel’s Reaction
Axar Patel also shared his reaction after Rohit dropped the catch. Initially, he was confident that Rohit would take the catch and had even started celebrating. However, as soon as Rohit dropped it, Axar turned away in disappointment. Rohit, visibly frustrated with himself, slammed his hand on the ground and later apologized to Axar with folded hands.
