Veteran Indian opener Rohit Sharma could be on the verge of bringing the curtain down on his notable ODI career, with multiple reports suggesting that the third and final one-day international against England at Lord’s on July 19 may be his last appearance in Indian colours. The development comes amid indications that the BCCI selection committee is planning for the 2027 ODI World Cup with a younger core.
According to reports, selectors have informed Rohit that he is no longer part of the long-term ODI plans of Team India beyond the ongoing England series. The move is believed to be part of the broader transition strategy aimed at preparing a fresh squad for the 2027 World Cup, with younger opening options such as Yashasvi Jaiswal or Ishan Kishan expected to receive greater opportunities.
The timing of the reports has intensified scrutiny on the 39-year-old, who has struggled for runs in the England ODI series. Rohit managed just 26 runs in the second ODI at Cardiff, extending a lean patch which has raised questions about his future despite having a decorated career.
However, India’s batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, has firmly backed the former captain, dismissing suggestions that Rohit is under pressure. Kotak said Experienced players usually go through phases of poor form and expressed his confidence that the opener is capable of producing a match-winning innings in the series decider at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground.
If the Lord’s ODI does turn out to be Rohit’s farewell, he will leave behind one of the greatest legacies in 50-over cricket. The Mumbai batter remains the only player to score three ODI double centuries and still holds the record for the highest individual ODI score of 264. He has also played an important role in the success of India across formats, including captaining the team to the 2024 T20 World Cup title before retiring from T20 internationals.
While neither Rohit Sharma nor the BCCI has officially confirmed his retirement plans, all eyes will now be on Lord’s, where one of India’s finest ODI careers could reach its emotional conclusion.
Sources: Indian Express | Telegraph
