Rohit Sharma is expected to miss India’s three-match ODI series against Afghanistan this month. He sustained a hamstring injury during the Indian Premier League (IPL), and it seems that the recovery hasn’t happened in time for the home series against the Blue Tigers.
Rohit’s form has been questioned by critics after a dry patch in his last ODI series against New Zealand, where he accumulated only 61 runs across three innings. However, his childhood coach Dinesh Lad squashed concerns over the 39-year-old’s form and fitness, insisting the flak is uncalled for given Rohit’s stature and achievements in the 50-over format.
“Being a coach, I don’t think he needs to prove anything to anyone. He badly wants to win the ODI World Cup. I have spoken to him and he is very categoric with what he wants in his career. I don’t think he needs to prove his fitness. Despite the age factor, he is still fit enough,” Lad was quoted as saying by India Today.
Lad brushed aside the critics’ claims and said that Rohit’s technique and template are perfect for 50-over cricket as he can settle down first and then take the attack to the bowlers.
“Critics keep talking. It’s their job. India needs Rohit’s experience if we want to reach the finals. Technique-wise there is no problem. Moreover, in 50-over cricket, you need to settle a bit. Rohit has got such technique that allows you to settle and then launch yourself,” Lad said.
Lad highlighted how Rohit was not only hitting boundaries and sixes but also looking to rotate strike during the IPL. He stated that the right-handed batter should absolutely be in the ODI team.
“In the IPL also, he showed his technique. He wasn’t only playing big shots but also taking singles and doubles. I don’t understand the critics’ point of view. My view is that he must be in the team,” Lad mentioned.
India have some challenging assignments lined up in 50-over cricket over the next six months as they prepare for the 2027 ODI World Cup. Lad responded to former national selector Saba Karim’s recent remarks that the next six months would be crucial for Rohit to cement his place in India’s plans for the 2027 World Cup. The former believes that these six months aren’t only crucial for Rohit but for the entire Indian team.
“Why are the next six months crucial only for Rohit? It’s crucial for all players. Everyone needs to play well to retain their place in the team. I have a 100 per cent guarantee that Rohit will definitely play the 50-over World Cup in 2027. He will do well during these six months and the later months as well. If you give him an opportunity, he will do well,” Lad stated.
Rohit not playing any other format does not mean he is having free time and enjoying life: Lad
Lad asserted that Rohit has not retired from Tests and T20Is so that he can enjoy his free time. The former said that the Nagpur-born is working constantly on his fitness and practising every day.
“Rohit not playing any other format does not mean he is having free time and enjoying life. He is practising every day and working constantly on his fitness. Don’t worry, he is preparing himself hard for the World Cup,” the coach said.
Lad advised Rohit to recall how he played during the 2019 ODI World Cup and follow the same approach in the matches to come.
“Rohit should stay on the wicket and once he settles down he is a dangerous player. I would like to remind him of how he played in the 2019 World Cup. He should play like that again,” Lad concluded.
Get every cricket updates! Follow Us:
