New Delhi: For the last few days, reports had suggested that the third ODI against England at Lord’s could be Rohit Sharma’s final international innings.
There were claims that chief selector Ajit Agarkar wanted to move on from the veteran opener, while head coach Gautam Gambhir was planning for the 2027 ODI World Cup with a younger squad. However, Rohit answered all the speculation in the best possible way. The former India captain smashed a brilliant 138-run knock against England and reminded everyone why he is still one of India’s biggest match-winners. His performance has strengthened the belief that no one can force him into retirement. Here are five major reasons why Rohit Sharma could continue playing ODI cricket until the 2027 World Cup.
Why is Rohit Sharma’s ODI World Cup record impossible to ignore?
Rohit Sharma has been one of the greatest performers in ODI World Cup history. In 28 World Cup matches, he has scored 1,575 runs at an outstanding average of 65, including seven centuries and three half-centuries.
His 2019 World Cup campaign remains one of the greatest by any batter. Rohit scored 648 runs in just nine innings, including a record five centuries, a feat that still stands unmatched. His consistency on the biggest stage makes him an automatic choice whenever a World Cup comes around.
Does Rohit Sharma still have unfinished business?
Despite winning multiple ICC trophies, Rohit’s biggest dream remains winning the ODI World Cup. India came close in 2023 but lost in the final.
Rohit has previously said that the 50-over World Cup is the ‘real World Cup’ for him. On several occasions, he has expressed his desire to play the 2027 edition and give himself one more chance to lift the trophy. His recent performances suggest that he is still motivated to achieve that goal.
Why does India still need Rohit Sharma’s leadership?
Even if Shubman Gill is leading the ODI side, Rohit’s presence inside the dressing room remains extremely valuable.
The experienced opener has guided India to two ICC trophies as captain and understands how to handle pressure in major tournaments. Young players continue to benefit from his experience, while his tactical knowledge makes him an important leader even when he is not wearing the captain’s armband.
| Category | Record / Achievement |
|---|---|
| ODI Matches | 288 |
| ODI Innings | 280 |
| Runs | 11,895 |
| Batting Average | 48.95 |
| Highest Score | 264 |
| Strike Rate | 93.04 |
| Centuries | 34 |
| Half-centuries | 62 |
| Fours | 1,126 |
| Sixes | 369 |
| ODI World Cup Matches | 28 |
| ODI World Cup Runs | 1,575 |
| ODI World Cup Average | 60.57 |
| ODI World Cup Centuries | 7 |
| 2019 World Cup Runs | 648 |
| 2019 World Cup Centuries | 5 |
| ODI Double Centuries | 3 |
| Captaincy Record | Led India to 2 ICC titles |
| Current Goal | Win the 2027 ODI World Cup |
How has Rohit Sharma improved his fitness?
Fitness was once considered Rohit’s biggest weakness. He often faced criticism over his weight despite being an excellent fielder.
Before India’s tour of Australia last year, Rohit reportedly worked hard on his fitness and lost around 11 to 15 kilograms. Since then, he has looked sharper on the field and has moved much better between the wickets. His improved fitness has also strengthened his chances of playing at the highest level for a few more years.
Why is Rohit Sharma still one of India’s biggest ODI match-winners?
Very few players in world cricket can match Rohit’s achievements in ODI cricket. The opener has scored 11,895 runs in 280 ODI innings, including 34 centuries and 62 half-centuries.
He is also the only batter to score three double centuries in ODI internationals, a record that highlights his ability to play match-winning knocks. Players with such a remarkable record are not easy to replace. As long as Rohit continues to score runs and win matches for India, it will be difficult for any team management to leave him out of the ODI squad.