Speculation about Rohit Sharma’s retirement has been doing the rounds for weeks. Reports suggested that the upcoming Australia series could be his final stint in international cricket.
But former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has now come forward to dismiss those claims.
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Speaking about a recent detailed phone call with the Indian captain, Pathan revealed that Rohit is determined to continue playing and even has his eyes set on the 2027 ODI World Cup.
What did Irfan Pathan say about his conversation with Rohit Sharma?
Pathan shared that he spoke to Rohit at length recently, and the discussion cleared all doubts regarding the batter’s future.
According to him, Rohit expressed a strong desire to carry on playing international cricket for India.
Despite the setbacks and speculation, the veteran opener made it clear that his focus is on extending his career and contributing as much as possible.
READ: When will Rohit Sharma play cricket next?
“This new (fitness) test is obviously not easy, so once you're able to clear it, that means your fitness is top-notch. I had a long call with him as well as far as just to know about his future plans, he’s very keen. He wants to make sure that he continues playing,” Pathan said on Sony Sports.
“As long as the player is fit, the age doesn't matter. But the challenge will be for him to have a game-time. Playing for India, I don't think there will be any issues with the motivation. Be it's Rohit. Be it's Virat or be it's Mohammed Shami as well. How much game-time they will have and how much they can continue playing cricket in whatever form, because they have retired from Test cricket (and) T20 Internationals as well,” Pathan added.
READ: Who will open for India in Asia Cup 2025?
Why was Rohit’s future being questioned?
The uncertainty started after a few media reports claimed that both Rohit and Virat Kohli might not continue till the 2027 World Cup.
Those reports pointed towards the Australia series as possibly their last major assignment.
However, Rohit’s recent actions tell a different story. The 38-year-old cleared the BCCI’s fitness tests at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, showing that his physical condition remains at a high level.