India captain Rohit Sharma is expected to miss the upcoming three-match ODI series against Afghanistan due to a hamstring injury. The injury was sustained during the Indian Premier League (IPL), and reports suggest he may not recover in time for the home series.
Rohit’s recent ODI form has also come under scrutiny. In India’s last ODI series against New Zealand, he scored only 61 runs in three innings. This led to criticism from some former players and experts.
However, Rohit’s childhood coach Dinesh Lad has strongly defended the veteran batter. Lad said Rohit has nothing left to prove in international cricket and remains fully committed to India’s 2027 ODI World Cup plans.
Lad Confident Rohit Will Play 2027 ODI World Cup
“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 also dismissed concerns about Rohit’s batting technique and approach.
“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.
The coach pointed to Rohit’s performances in the IPL as proof that his game remains strong.
“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.
Lad also backed Rohit to remain part of India’s plans for the next ODI World Cup.
“I have a 100 per cent guarantee that Rohit will definitely play the 50-over World Cup in 2027,” Lad stated.
He added, “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.”
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