Shubman Gill comments on rumors surrounding Rohit Sharma’s retirement
DUBAI: As the Champions Trophy final approaches, speculation about Indian captain Rohit Sharma’s possible retirement from ODI cricket has intensified.
The rumors gained momentum at the Dubai Cricket Stadium, where vice-captain Shubman Gill found himself addressing the topic twice—first in a scheduled pre-final press conference and later in an unexpected return to clarify his remarks.
Gill urged the media not to misinterpret his words regarding the captain’s future.
When asked about Sharma’s potential retirement from the 50-over format, Gill hinted that an announcement could follow the final but insisted that no such discussion had taken place within the team.
“At the moment, our sole focus in the dressing room is winning the Champions Trophy. Rohit Sharma hasn’t spoken to me or the team about any retirement plans,” Gill stated.
The speculation follows Sharma’s decision to step away from T20 internationals after leading India to victory in the 2024 T20 World Cup.
Whether he will bid farewell to ODIs remains uncertain, with fans eagerly awaiting an official confirmation after the final.
India is set to face New Zealand in the Champions Trophy final on Sunday in Dubai, a match that could also mark the final ODI appearances for both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
At 37 and 36 respectively, Rohit and Kohli entered the tournament amid discussions about their futures, particularly following inconsistent performances in Test cricket.
Having been pillars of Indian cricket for over 15 years, the duo retired from T20 internationals after India’s World Cup triumph last year. With the next 50-over World Cup not scheduled until 2027, this final could mark their last appearance in the format.
India enters the title clash at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium as favorites, riding high on confidence after dominating the eight-team tournament.
They have maintained an unbeaten streak, including a 44-run group-stage victory over New Zealand—though both teams had already secured semi-final berths at that point.
Rohit’s side has played all their matches in Dubai, having declined to travel to Champions Trophy hosts Pakistan due to political tensions.
Chasing a record third Champions Trophy title, India also boasts a formidable spin attack. They deployed four spinners against New Zealand, with Varun Chakravarthy starring with figures of 5-42, helping dismiss the Black Caps for 205 while chasing 250.
India stuck with the same XI against Australia, with their spin-heavy strategy proving effective once again, even as the pitch offered slightly less turn.
