By Dinesh Karthik applauded Rohit Sharma’s clarity, stating that his response was direct, humorous, and a strong message against premature retirement talks.
Rohit Sharma is here to stay. Amidst rampant speculation and swirling rumors about his potential ODI retirement, the Indian skipper has put all doubts to rest. Confirming his decision, Rohit Sharma stated that he has no plans to step away from the format anytime soon.
“I am not going to retire from this format. Just to make sure no rumors are spread moving forward. Koi future plan hai nahi, jo chal raha hai chalega (there is no future plan, whatever is going on will continue as it is),” Rohit said, making his intentions crystal clear.
Rohit’s firm stance was well received by cricketing peers, including wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik, who lauded the Indian captain for his direct approach.
“It pretty much sums up Rohit Sharma as a person. Very humorous about it but at the same time sending the message across: ‘Don’t be in a hurry to ask for my retirement. I’ll do it when I feel like it,’” Karthik remarked on Cricbuzz.
Praise for Virat Kohli
Karthik also spoke highly of Rohit’s long-time teammate Virat Kohli, acknowledging his ability to handle pressure and deliver in crucial moments.
“They just know what it takes to do well in big matches. In the lead-up to a game, there are so many thoughts going on. But the way they channel those thoughts and use that energy on the field is what makes them special,” he said.
Jaiswal’s Potential as an Opener
Speaking about young talent, Karthik endorsed Yashasvi Jaiswal as a promising opener. “Jaiswal is a bonafide opener. When he gets his turn, he’s going to do phenomenally well,” he predicted.
Rohit’s Future Plans: The Road to 2027 World Cup
If reports are to be believed, Rohit Sharma is already planning to extend his career till the 2027 World Cup. According to a report in Cricbuzz, the Indian captain might consider retiring from international cricket post the marquee ICC event, scheduled to be hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.
At present, Rohit Sharma is 38 years old, and by the time the 2027 World Cup rolls around, he will be 40. In the meantime, he is expected to collaborate closely with Abhishek Nayar, the current assistant coach of the Indian cricket team. The focus of this collaboration will be on enhancing fitness, refining batting techniques, and maintaining the right approach to the game.
Between 2025 and 2027, Team India is slated to play 27 ODIs, though additional matches may be scheduled later. Rohit intends to use these fixtures as key preparation for the grand tournament.
The Role of Abhishek Nayar
Nayar, a well-respected coach among Indian cricketers, has earned accolades from numerous players, including Dinesh Karthik and KL Rahul, for his coaching methods. He was also a former teammate of Rohit Sharma, making their association even more significant.
Uncertainty Over Rohit’s Test Future
While Rohit’s ODI plans are clear, his Test future remains uncertain. His performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy was underwhelming, leading to questions about his place in the squad. Reports suggest that his form in the upcoming IPL season will be a key determinant of his selection for India’s tour of England in June.
“Let the IPL be over first. Only an astrologer thinks so far ahead into the future,” a source was quoted as saying in the Cricbuzz report.
With Rohit Sharma setting his sights on continuing in ODIs, his fans and teammates can look forward to more stellar performances from the Indian skipper in the years to come.
