Captain Rohit Sharma assured on Saturday that his players are well aware of the pressure associated with being Indian cricketers and are maintaining a "calm and composed" demeanour ahead of the World Cup final against five-time champions Australia.
Undefeated in 10 matches, the hosts aim to clinch their first global trophy in over a decade at Ahmedabad's colossal cricket stadium on Sunday, where 130,000 fans are expected.
"Leading up to every game, we have been quite composed and quite calm about what we want to do because we know how it is outside the environment we have," Rohit shared with reporters. "Being an Indian cricketer, you have to deal with pressure; that's a given; it's there."
Reflecting on the emotional significance of the event, Rohit emphasised the team's focus on their collective effort rather than succumbing to the magnitude of the occasion. India last won the World Cup in 2011 at home under MS Dhoni.
Rohit expressed his desire to win the title for coach Rahul Dravid, highlighting Dravid's significant role in shaping the team.
He acknowledged the contrast between Dravid's playing style and his own, underscoring the coach's support for the players' freedom to express themselves on the field.
"His role has been absolutely massive," Rohit stated. "What he has done for Indian cricket is massive. And he also feels that he wants to be part of this big occasion. And it's for us to do it for him."
As India faces Australia in their eighth World Cup final, Rohit recognised the opposition's impressive journey, having won eight consecutive matches after two initial losses.
Acknowledging the challenge, Rohit emphasised the importance of focusing on India's game plan and staying true to their team objectives in the final. The much-anticipated clash promises to be a fierce and strategic battle between two cricketing powerhouses.
