Former India captain Dilip Vengsarkar has defended Rohit Sharma, saying it is unfortunate that questions keep being raised about a player who has delivered in big games.
Rohit faced scrutiny during India’s ODI series against England, with doubts about whether he would continue. The 38-year-old has kept his place in the squad for the West Indies series and is expected to open again. During the England series he made 138 from 110 balls at Lord’s, becoming the first Indian batter to score an ODI hundred at the ground.
Vengsarkar on Rohit
Speaking to RevSportz, Vengsarkar said he could not say whether Rohit will play at the next World Cup, but that plenty of cricket remains in him and everything depends on form and fitness. He added that he believes there is a place for Rohit among the openers.
Rohit’s experience at the top and his record in major matches count in his favour, and the Lord’s knock showed he can still win games in ODIs.
Praise for Gill
Vengsarkar also spoke warmly of Shubman Gill, Rohit’s opening partner in the ODI side. He admired Gill’s batting and style, and described his leadership on his first tour of England as India’s captain as unbelievable, with strong contributions as both captain and batter.
On selection, he said the best XI should be chosen first and the captain then picked as an automatic inclusion, noting it is hard to apply that across all formats.
With the 2027 ODI World Cup still some way off, Rohit’s long-term place will rest on his performances and fitness. The West Indies series gives him another chance to strengthen his case.
