Rohit Sharma (ANI Photo)
Speaking after a high-level Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) review meeting in Mumbai on Thursday, Saikia offered a firm defence of the 39-year-old, whose future has again become a major talking point with the 2027 ODI World Cup approaching. In the last match, he scored 138 runs. His comments came amid reports that selectors had considered moving on from Rohit in their ODI plans, potentially leaving his participation in the 2027 World Cup in doubt. The secretary had already backed Rohit before the Lord’s match, saying on July 17: “Rohit is a regular member of the Indian ODI team, and he will continue to represent the country as long as he is in the scheme of things.
In other words, the Lord’s ODI won’t be his last match.”
So, I don’t want to give fodder to the speculations,” Saikia said. NEW DELHI: BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia has pushed back against growing speculation over Rohit Sharma’s ODI future, insisting that the former India captain is continuing to perform at a high level and questioning why his place in the side is being debated. “He is playing superbly in all the matches. So, what more do you want? So, why there is a speculation? Instead, Rohit responded in characteristic fashion — with a match-defining performance.
The speculation intensified during India’s ODI tour of England earlier this year, with reports suggesting the Lord’s ODI could be Rohit’s final appearance in an India shirt.