Former India head coach Ravi Shastri supported Rohit Sharma and urged that no external pressure should be put on him regarding his retirement as long as he enjoys the game as a batsman.
Amid speculations of his retirement from the India national cricket team, Rohit Sharma made a spectacular comeback by scoring a historic century against England at the prestigious Lord’s on July 19. Before the match, there were some noises regarding his recent form and his future with the team. After a glorious century, those critics have put their fingers to their lips.
Rohit Sharma silenced all his critics by scoring a brilliant century at Lord’s.
India vs England ahead of 3third ODI in London, there were strong claims that the Lord’s match could be Rohit’s final match with the Men in Blue in international cricket after a few short-lived matches against England in Birmingham and Cardiff.
Indian cricket team’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak claimed that there was no extra pressure on Rohit Sharma and he was allowed to bat in his own style. Despite assurances from the team, reports claiming possible differences between the 39-year-old batsman and head coach Gautam Gambhir and the chief selector made the situation worse.
Rohit Sharma does not need to prove himself: Ravi Shastri
It’s hard to tell what exactly happened behind the scenes, but he scored 138 runs off 110 balls. He made it clear that he can still give a lot to the team.
After the innings, Ravi Shastri said that Rohit Sharma does not need to prove himself, although he has surprised everyone with his batting. The former India coach also said that if Rohit still has the desire to continue his game then the management should allow him to do so.
“He (Rohit Sharma) didn’t need to prove himself, but he has silenced everyone. When you get such rumors flying around, it is sometimes disturbing. When a player has done so much, he doesn’t need to prove anything to anyone.”
Shastri told Sky Cricket, “But if he has the desire to play, to work hard on his game and he is still enjoying it, then I think he should be given a chance for as long as he wants. The day will come when he feels he doesn’t have that ability anymore and he will leave.”
Rohit Sharma has given a befitting reply to those who doubted him.
Speaking to BCCI.TV, the ‘Hitman’ claimed that noise has been a part of his career ever since he made his debut for the national cricket team. So, what people say about him doesn’t matter to him, because he knows what to do for the team on the field.
“Look, my job is with the bat, to come out, play, represent my country and represent the team. That’s what I have been asked to do since I made my debut and that’s what I will continue to do.”
Speaking to BCCI.TV after the match, Rohit said, “The noise has been there ever since I made my debut and it will be there as long as I play. It doesn’t really matter much. What matters is what I do on the field and how I contribute to the team’s success.”