Ravichandran Ashwin, the former Indian all-rounder, suggested that the rumors surrounding Rohit Sharma’s potential loss of favor with selectors might have some truth.
Despite the Indian team’s inability to chase down 388 runs in the final ODI against England, Rohit made history by becoming the first Indian to score an ODI century at Lord’s, hitting 138 runs off 110 balls. Prior to this match, there were whispers that it could be Sharma’s last appearance, with suggestions that he had been informed before the series began. Furthermore, it was reported that Sharma had clashed with head coach Virat Kohli and selector Ajit Agarkar.
Ashwin Addresses Retirement Rumors
Ashwin On Rohit’s Retirement Rumours
Just two days before the ODI, Devajit Saikia, secretary of the Indian Cricket Board, dismissed the retirement rumors, confirming that Rohit Sharma would participate in the final ODI. However, Ashwin believes that such rumors often stem from some underlying truth. He stated, “When the news about Rohit Sharma’s potential retirement surfaced, it’s not just outside noise. There’s a saying in Tamil: ‘There is no smoke without fire’. There was indeed fire, but he proved himself by scoring runs. I believe he can still aim for the 2027 World Cup.”
Rohit’s Injury and Performance
Ashwin praised Rohit for his remarkable century, noting that he might have been grappling with the effects of an injury alongside external pressures. During the 2026 IPL season, Sharma faced an injury that sidelined him for five matches. Ashwin expressed that if Rohit had been in peak condition, he could have dominated the English bowlers at Lord’s. “This is Rohit’s comeback journey post-injury. Had he been in better form or more confident, he could have scored 180 and led the team to victory. He was in excellent form,” Ashwin remarked.
Future of Rohit and Virat
Ashwin On Rohit And Virat’s Future
As for the 2027 ODI World Cup, the Indian team management has yet to confirm the positions of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Kohli’s outstanding performance has made him a near-certain selection, while Rohit’s inconsistency since handing over the ODI captaincy to Shubman Gill has raised questions. However, his century at Lord’s should alleviate concerns about his future. Ashwin asserted that as long as they continue to score runs, neither the coach nor the selectors can afford to drop Rohit or Virat. “They cannot be overlooked if they are performing. Rohit has nearly 12,000 runs; he is untouchable. Moreover, they attract crowds. Dropping them would create a massive uproar,” Ashwin concluded.