Speculation surrounding Rohit Sharma’s ODI future has intensified ahead of India’s third and final ODI against England at Lord’s on July 19. Reports suggest the veteran opener’s parents, Gurunath Sharma and Purnima Sharma, have arrived in London, adding further weight to rumors that the match could be his final appearance in the 50-over format. Rohit has already retired from T20Is and Tests, with reports now indicating he could also bring the curtain down on his ODI career.
According to reports, Rohit reportedly arranged for his parents to attend the Lord’s fixture after learning about the selectors’ stance on his ODI future. The report claimed the selection committee is no longer viewing the former India captain as part of its plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup, fueling speculation that the third ODI against England may mark the end of his international ODI journey.
Rohit Sharma’s Parents Reach London As IND vs ENG 3rd ODI Fuels Retirement Talks
Rohit Sharma’s parents, Gurunath Sharma and Purnima Sharma, are reportedly set to watch India’s third ODI against England at Lord’s, a match that is increasingly being tipped as the veteran opener’s farewell appearance in international cricket. Reports have claimed that Rohit was informed about the selectors’ plans ahead of the series and personally arranged for his parents to be in London for the occasion. Having already retired from T20Is and Test cricket, the 39-year-old could now be preparing to bring his ODI career to a close.
Rohit’s form has also come under scrutiny during the England series. The former India captain has managed scores of 11 and 26 in the first two ODIs after registering knocks of 48 and 79 during the recent home series against Afghanistan. According to reports, the selectors and team management are now looking towards younger options for the future, with players such as Yashasvi Jaiswal reportedly among those being considered as India begins planning for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
If the reports prove accurate, the Lord’s ODI will mark the end of one of India’s greatest white-ball careers. Rohit captained India to the 2023 ODI World Cup final and led the team to the 2024 T20 World Cup title, cementing his legacy as one of the country’s most successful leaders. With his parents reportedly in London for the match, the occasion could become an emotional farewell to the ‘Hitman’ in Indian colours.
Will The Lord’s ODI Be Rohit Sharma’s Final Match For India?
The third and final ODI against England at Lord’s on July 19 is reportedly set to be Rohit Sharma’s final appearance for India. According to reports, the BCCI selection committee, along with head coach Gautam Gambhir, informed the veteran opener that he is no longer part of the team’s long-term ODI plans. With India now focusing on the 2027 World Cup, the management is believed to be looking at younger options, including Yashasvi Jaiswal, as part of the transition.
A source close to the developments said, “The selectors have informed Rohit that he does not figure in their scheme of things after the England tour and they are moving on from him after this series. He wanted to continue, especially after working on his fitness. The selectors have left the ball in Sharma’s court.” Reports also claimed Rohit discussed the decision with BCCI officials during the England tour but was disappointed with the outcome.
