Bailey: Rohit can fill into big shoes of Tendulkar

Rohit cracked a match-winning double century as India posted a 57-run victory in the series-deciding final ODI against Australia to clinch the rubber 3-2 here last night.

"It was an extraordinary innings. He has had a wonderful series. He is obviously flourishing at the top of the order. He would certainly be one who is in the mix for that spot that will open up after the great man (Sachin Tendulkar) departs in a couple of Tests," he told reporters at post-match press conference here.

Bailey also lauded Rohit for pacing up his innings wonderfully after starting on a slow note. "It was extraordinary. I think the record was smashed for most sixes in a game. I thought Rohit batted beautifully. He summed it up. He wasn't actually that quick early on. I looked at it when he brought his 100 up and he was probably only run a ball. He just got a bit busier after that," he said.

Rohit had blasted his way into the record books with a breathtaking 209 that included a record 16 sixes. He also became only third batsman in the history of ODI cricket after Virender Sehwag (219) and Sachin Tendulkar (200 no) to reach the coveted double ton.

This was also the highest individual ODI score by any batsman against Australia in ODIs. Asked whether 400-run chase with the new rules of five fielders inside the circle and two new balls good for the game, Bailey said it would be a different ball game in livelier conditions in Australia and South Africa.

"You won't get wickets like this in Australia and South Africa. It does depend a little bit on conditions and then when you get those conditions in Australia, may be the two new balls play a part and the team might be 3-30, and you have got to find a way to get to 250. It is different everywhere. It is just a matter of striking the balance. I don't mind the odd games like this," he explained.