Is Rohit Sharma Nearing the End, or Is There More to Come?
The doubts were there. The criticism was loud. And for a moment, it felt like Rohit Sharma’s time at the top was slipping away.
When he stepped aside for the final Test against Australia in Sydney, speculation about his future kicked into overdrive. But Rohit responded the only way he knows how—with runs. A century against England in the ODI series was a reminder of his class, yet the retirement chatter hasn’t fully disappeared.
A Century, but Unanswered Questions
Even after his latest ton, the big question lingers: Can he sustain this form? Was that knock a sign of resurgence, or just a brief spark?
At 37, white-ball cricket seems to be his sweet spot—his experience and natural stroke play still making an impact. Teaming up with Shubman Gill at the top, the pair has been in formidable touch, stacking up runs with remarkable consistency.
But with the Champions Trophy looming, the debate continues. Will Rohit bow out on his own terms, or is the inevitable closer than expected? Adding to the intrigue, reports of a rift between coach Gautam Gambhir and some players have raised eyebrows, making India’s campaign in Dubai even more intriguing.
Manjrekar Remains Unconvinced
Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar isn’t entirely sold on Rohit’s revival.
“He needed that big hundred, and he got it,” Manjrekar told ESPNcricinfo. “But can he do it again? I’m not convinced yet.”
Looking Sharp, Staying Focused
Despite the speculation, Rohit remains unfazed. During training at the ICC Academy in Dubai, he looked sharp—nailing fielding drills, hitting the stumps, and batting with confidence. The team’s energy was high, full of banter and intensity, a sign that they’re in a good mental space ahead of the tournament.
Rohit thrives on confidence, and white-ball cricket allows him to play to his strengths—stand and deliver. Under his captaincy, India dominated England 3-0 in the ODI series, a crucial build-up to the Champions Trophy.
Finding His Groove with Gill
Rohit has rediscovered his ODI rhythm, forming a strong partnership with Shubman Gill. The duo has opened together 26 times, amassing 1,868 runs at an impressive average of 74.72.
The numbers don’t lie—Rohit’s ODI average stands at 49.05, with a staggering 10,988 runs in 268 matches. When he gets going, he scores big. His highest ODI score? A record-breaking 264.
Even Virat Kohli, another veteran, has faced similar scrutiny. Despite scoring a century in the first Test against Australia, questions about his form persisted—until a gritty half-century helped ease some of the pressure.
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Optimism in the Indian Camp
Former teammate Shikhar Dhawan believes India’s senior players still have plenty to offer.
“There’s a lot to be optimistic about,” Dhawan said. “The squad has a great balance of experience and youth. Shubman Gill has been incredibly consistent, and Rohit and Virat bring so much to the team. India will be tough to beat.”
“India played some amazing cricket in the last Champions Trophy but fell short in the final. This team knows what it takes to go all the way,” he added.
The Final Chapter?
Rohit Sharma has given everything to Indian cricket. He may have a couple more years left, but nothing is certain. With both the T20 World Cup and Champions Trophy ahead, his next move remains a mystery.
If India lifts the trophy, will he walk away on a high? Or will another title fuel his hunger for more?
For now, Rohit isn’t thinking about the finish line. He’s taking guard, ready to lead India once again—just as he has so many times before.
