Rohit Sharma retirement rumours continue to dominate headlines, but India ODI captain Shubman Gill has made it clear that the team has not discussed the veteran batter's future.
The speculation grew ahead of the third ODI against England at Lord's, with several reports claiming that Rohit would retire from international cricket after the match. However, the Indian opener answered the rumours in the best possible way by scoring a historic century, becoming the first Indian batter to register an ODI hundred at Lord's.
After the match, Gill dismissed the reports and said there has been no conversation inside the dressing room about Rohit's retirement.
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"He’s (Rohit) not told us anything. I think it’s all out in the media, but there’s not been any discussion like that in the team," Gill told reporters after the third ODI.
Rohit Sharma Responds to Retirement Speculation
Rohit also addressed the retirement rumours, saying he has never allowed outside opinions to affect his focus on representing India.
"My job is with my bat. Come and represent the country- that’s what I have been told to do since I made my debut. That’s what I am doing. So, the noise- since I made my debut was there, and till I am going to stay here, it is always going to be here," Rohit told BCCI.
His comments came after days of speculation over his future in international cricket, with fans eagerly waiting for clarity.
Rohit Sharma's Lord's Century Keeps India in the Chase
England posted a massive 388-run target in the third ODI, putting India under pressure from the very beginning.
Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill gave India an excellent start with a century opening partnership. The experienced opener played with patience early on before attacking the England bowlers, keeping India's hopes alive throughout the chase.
Despite Rohit's brilliant knock, India finished on 360/7 in 50 overs, falling 27 runs short as England sealed the ODI series.
Shubman Gill Praises Rohit Sharma's Match-Winning Approach
Gill was full of praise for Rohit's batting and revealed how the experienced opener controlled the chase with smart game awareness.
"I think the way Rohit bhai paced his innings was outstanding," Gill said. "Most of the time, I was at the non-striker’s end just watching him bat. Our discussions were mainly about keeping wickets in hand because that was the only way we could chase such a big total."
Gill also explained the conversations they had during the Powerplay.
"During the Powerplay, we spoke about whether we should go after the bowling or not, but we know it’s not easy to attack against the new ball. The way he paced his innings and then accelerated was exceptional. Once he got into the 60s and 70s, it was truly a treat to watch," he added.
Rohit Sharma Creates History at Lord's
Although India lost the match, Rohit Sharma's innings will be remembered for years.His century made him the first Indian batter to score an ODI hundred at Lord's, adding another landmark achievement to his illustrious career.