Former India captain Rohit Sharma does not need to prove his fitness or batting credentials to anyone, according to his childhood coach Dinesh Lad, who believes the veteran opener remains vital to India’s hopes of winning the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Rohit has come under scrutiny following a lean run in his last ODI series against New Zealand, where he managed only 61 runs in three innings. However, Lad dismissed concerns over the 39-year-old’s form and fitness, insisting the criticism is unwarranted given Rohit’s stature and achievements in the 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 told PTI Videos on Friday.
The veteran coach said India would benefit enormously from Rohit’s experience at the next World Cup and backed him to overcome his recent struggles.
“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.
He also pointed to Rohit’s IPL performances, where the opener mixed aggression with smart strike rotation.
“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 also 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.
“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 said.
“He will do well during these six months and the later months as well. If you give him an opportunity, he will do well.”
Having retired from Test cricket and T20 Internationals, Rohit is now focused solely on the ODI format. Lad believes the opener’s desire to lift the World Cup trophy is driving his preparations.
“He knows that if he has to play there should be a reason. The reason is to win the ODI World Cup. He wants to win that for India at any cost. I am sure he will retire only after that,” Lad said.
The coach revealed that Rohit continues to work hard behind the scenes despite stepping away from two international formats.
“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.”
Lad also reminded critics of Rohit’s remarkable ODI record, which includes three double centuries and a record five hundreds at the 2019 World Cup.
“He has retired from Tests and T20Is, not ODIs. His ODI records are impeccable. I don’t think there is any pressure on him,” Lad said.
Offering a final piece of advice to his former pupil, Lad urged Rohit to trust the formula that brought him success in the past.
“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.”
“He should play domestic 50-over matches. Criticism will come, but Rohit should ignore it. He should enjoy playing.”
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