Rohit Sharma’s journey in ODIs seems to be nearing a poignant end at Lord’s. In a heartwarming twist, his parents, Gurunath and Purnima Sharma, have made the trip to London just in time for the third and final ODI between India and England on July 19. Many are speculating that this match could be Rohit’s last appearance in the 50-over format. His recent challenges against Afghanistan and throughout the England series are believed to have influenced this decision. Reports indicate that Rohit is ready to hang up his ODI boots, with his parents there to see the “Mumbai Cha Raja” wear the Indian jersey one final time on Sunday.
As per a report from CREX, Rohit took the initiative to arrange the trip for his parents after conversations about his ODI future. Sources close to the situation have revealed that the selectors are already shifting their focus towards the preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup and are not considering the 39-year-old as part of those plans. Younger talents, like Yashasvi Jaiswal, are expected to step up and take on more significant roles in the upcoming cycle.
“Don’t think a player as big as Rohit can feel the pressure” – Indian Batting Coach Sitanshu Kotak Backs Rohit Sharma Ahead of Lord’s
As retirement talks swirl around the cricketing world, India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has come out in support of seasoned opener Rohit Sharma. After India’s loss in the second ODI in Cardiff, Kotak brushed off any notions that Rohit was feeling the heat, despite his recent back-to-back batting struggles.
In the first ODI at Edgbaston, Rohit managed just 11 runs, followed by a modest 26 off 47 balls in Cardiff. He found it tough to get going against England’s disciplined bowling attack and ultimately fell to Will Jacks while trying to pull off a risky sweep shot. The pitch was tricky, offering movement for seamers and requiring batters to show a lot of patience.
Kotak emphasized that you can’t judge a player of Rohit’s caliber based on just two innings, as he said, “I don’t think a player as big as Rohit can feel the pressure. He’s too good a player to feel that. Yes, he hasn’t scored in two games. I don’t think that makes any difference. But today also it looked like he’ll get a good innings but that’s okay.”
The coach also highlighted the tough conditions in Cardiff, suggesting that Rohit’s usual aggressive shots were more challenging to pull off given the pitch’s nature. He expressed confidence that Rohit could turn things around and deliver a standout performance at Lord’s. Rather than labeling Rohit as “struggling,” Kotak referred to his current situation as a temporary phase that many players go through in their careers.
If Lord’s turns out to be the final act in Rohit’s ODI journey, Indian cricket might be gearing up to say goodbye to one of its all-time greats on one of the grandest stages in the sport.
