Rohit Sharma's ODI future has reportedly come under serious doubt, with a report claiming that Sunday's third and final ODI against England at Lord's could be the veteran opener's last appearance for India in the format.
According to The Times of India, the BCCI selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, has decided that the team should begin looking beyond the former captain and hand greater opportunities to Yashasvi Jaiswal as part of its preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
The report states that although Rohit has worked extensively on his fitness since retiring from Test cricket, the selectors have been dissatisfied with his recent performances.
Citing a BCCI source, the report said the decision to move on from Rohit had effectively been taken after India's home ODI series against Afghanistan last month.
It further claimed that the team management had suggested Rohit sit out the third ODI in Chennai to allow Jaiswal an opportunity, but the veteran opener declined. As a result, captain Shubman Gill batted at No. 3 in place of the unavailable Virat Kohli to accommodate Jaiswal in the playing XI.
"The selectors had made up their minds to drop him after the ODI series against Afghanistan at home last month. Rohit also declined to rest for the third ODI in Chennai to give Jaiswal a look-in. Eventually, captain Shubman Gill had to bat at No. 3 to accommodate Jaiswal," a BCCI source told the paper.
The report also claimed that the Gautam Gambhir-led team management has not been satisfied with Rohit's performances since Gill replaced him as India's ODI captain following last year's Champions Trophy victory.
"It was always going to be a challenge for Rohit since he retired from the other two formats. He also plays very little domestic cricket. He turned up for two Vijay Hazare Trophy matches last season, one of which was against Sikkim. He needs more time to find his rhythm. The selectors have conveyed their opinion. Now, it's up to Rohit and the board to decide how they want to go ahead with it," the source was quoted as saying.
If the reported plans are implemented, the ODI at Lord's on Sunday could mark the end of Rohit Sharma's career in India's ODI colours.
Also Read | BCCI Sends Strong Message to Selectors Amid Rohit Sharma Buzz, 'Not Pleased', Report
