Rohit Sharma getting dropped from ODIs? Selectors look for "backups" as opener given ultimatum - Reports
(Courtesy : BCCI)
Rohit Sharma missed several matches of the IPL 2026 due to a hamstring injury.
Rohit Sharma started the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 with an explosive 78 off 38 balls at a strike rate of 205.26 against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), helping Mumbai Indians (MI) record their highest IPL chase. But since then, things took a different turn.
The former MI captain saw a dip in form and also struggled with his fitness. He sustained a hamstring injury, which kept him away from some matches. Though Rohit has been picked for the upcoming ODI series against Afghanistan, his availability is subject to fitness.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the selection committee have shown concern over his fitness and were in consistent talks with the medical team. A report from Times of India now has claimed that the BCCI is rethinking Rohit’s inclusion in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2027.
BCCI not willing to stick with Rohit Sharma for ODI World Cup 2027 citing fitness issues
The BCCI is concerned about Rohit Sharma‘s fitness with growing age. He has shown signs of discomfort in the ongoing IPL 2026. That has raised questions on his availability for the ICC event scheduled next year in South Africa.
A BCCI official confirmed that Rohit didn’t report at the BCCI’s Center of Excellence (CoE). The Indian management is planning to explore other options beyond him as he is nearing 40 and it becomes difficult to complete the requirement of ODI cricket.
The official also added that the selection committee is exploring other options along with Yashasvi Jaiswal. He said:
“There are concerns about his body being able to take the load of high-performance sport. He has to field for 50 overs. ODI cricket doesn’t have the option of an Impact Player like IPL.”
Ishan Kishan has been added to the ODI squad for the upcoming ODI series. Along with Shubman Gill, the selectors are considering Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ishan as the other options in case Rohit can’t stay fit for the ODI World Cup 2027. There also have been reports, which claimed that England tour will be crucial for Rohit if he has to make his case strong.
Selectors decide against judging Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli together
Additionally, the selection committee has also talked about moving on from the template of keeping Rohit and Virat Kohli together in the team. Virat is one of the fittest cricketers going around, and his form is also pretty good. Meanwhile, the BCCI is unhappy that Rohit hasn’t carried on with the aggressive approach he used to have when he was the ODI captain.
The source concluded, “At this moment Kohli’s fitness and form is better than most cricketers in India. But one has to understand that Kohli and Rohit can’t be clubbed together anymore. A firm decision needs to be taken on Rohit after consulting the BCCI medical team.“
However, talking about Rohit’s form in ODIs. He has looked good and has been among the runs. But there are not many ODIs for India before the ODI World Cup 2027. Hence, the BCCI might look to explore other possible options as well.
When will the IND vs AFG ODI series begin?
The three-match ODI series between India and Afghanistan will begin on June 14, Sunday.
Who will lead India in the upcoming ODI series against Afghanistan?
Shubman Gill will lead India in the upcoming ODI series against Afghanistan.
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Karan Rawat is a seasoned cricket writer with a deep passion for the game and over 5 years of experience covering everything that the game can offer. He loves to share the analysis, match reports, and player profiles and tries to bring stories to life with a unique blend of statistics and storytelling. Whether breaking down Test match tactics or capturing the drama of a T20 thriller, Karan's work connects fans with the soul of the sport.