In an interview with PTI, Saikia dismissed claims that the seasoned opener was planning to retire after the third ODI, emphasizing that no discussions of this nature had occurred within the board.
“There are numerous speculations circulating in the media concerning Rohit Sharma’s future. I want to clearly state that there has not been any discussion regarding Rohit playing his last match at Lord’s on Sunday,” Saikia mentioned.
This clarification comes in response to media reports suggesting that the Indian team management and selectors were preparing for a future without Rohit ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup, with younger players likely to be given more chances.
Rohit’s position has been questioned following underwhelming performances in the first two games of the ongoing series against England.
While ruling out an immediate retirement, Saikia remained noncommittal about whether the 39-year-old would be included in India’s plans for the 2027 World Cup.
“Rohit is a key member of the Indian ODI squad and will continue to represent the country as long as he remains part of the setup. In other words, the ODI at Lord’s won’t be his farewell match,” he added.
Speculation had gained momentum after a report by the Indian Express indicated that national selectors had informed Rohit he wasn’t part of their long-term vision beyond the England series, with Yashasvi Jaiswal seen as a viable future option at the top of the order.
According to the report, while the selectors were inclined toward a younger team, they left the decision about Rohit’s future up to him.
As India and England prepare for Sunday’s decisive match at Lord’s, the BCCI’s latest statement has addressed speculation surrounding one of India’s most successful white-ball captains.
