Mohammad Kaif and Ravi Shastri on Rohit Sharma: Speculation regarding Rohit Sharma's retirement has been put to rest following his magnificent century against England at Lord's.
After the second match of the series, reports had surfaced suggesting that this might be Rohit Sharma's final ODI series and that the team management was planning to move on.
Amidst all these rumors and the pressure, Rohit silenced his critics by playing an explosive innings of 138 runs. Now, former Indian batting great Mohammad Kaif has slammed those who spread these rumors.
Mohammad Kaif lashes out at Rohit's critics
Mohammad Kaif has openly supported Rohit Sharma by sharing a video on his Instagram handle, taking a sharp dig at those speculating about his retirement. Targeting Rohit's critics in the video, Kaif remarked, So, is the retirement done? You’ve really embarrassed yourselves.
Rohit Sharma will decide his own retirement; it is his prerogative. He has done so much for India that he will leave on his own terms. Right now, there is immense pressure on him people are telling him, 'Brother, your time is up; just go and retire.' Yet, amidst this very pressure, he has scored a historic century at Lord's.
It is worth noting that Rohit Sharma played a magnificent innings of 138 runs off just 110 balls under challenging conditions. During this knock, he struck 17 fours and 5 towering sixes, maintaining a strike rate of 125.45. However, Team India ultimately suffered a defeat by 27 runs.
Rohit can scale great heights with the right support
Kaif believes that Rohit Sharma can still contribute significantly to Team India at this stage of his career, provided he receives full backing from the captain and the board, free from any pressure. Kaif urged the BCCI and current captain Shubman Gill to openly support the senior player.
Meanwhile, former India head coach and commentator Ravi Shastri has come out in support of Rohit Sharma amidst speculation regarding his retirement. Shastri remarked, "Rohit didn't need to prove himself, yet he has silenced everyone.
It can be unsettling when such rumors circulate. When a player has achieved so much, they have nothing left to prove to anyone.
However, if he has the desire to play, works hard at his game, and continues to enjoy it, then I believe he should be given the opportunity to play for as long as he wishes.
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