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Legendary Australian cricketer Steve Waugh believes that Rohit Sharma still has enough talent and experience to play in the ICC ODI World Cup 2027, but his place in India’s squad will depend on his commitment and preparation.
Rohit is now 39 and has already retired from Test and T20I cricket. His future in ODIs also came under the scanner during India’s recent series in England.
After scoring only 37 runs in the first two matches, he smashed a stunning 138 from just 110 balls at Lord’s and proved he still has the fire. Amid this, Arshdeep Singh shares Gautam Gambhir & Co.'s message on India Test recall.
Only Rohit Sharma can decide: Steve Waugh on Rohit Sharma's World Cup future
Amid the buzz over his ODI future, Steve Waugh has made an interesting point as he shared his views on whether Rohit Sharma can be part of the ICC ODI World Cup 2027. He said that the former Indian captain is the only man who can decide his World Cup fate.
The former Australian captain has stressed that Rohit’s selection will depend on whether he is ready to train hard, make sacrifices, stay fit, and give 100% commitment, and that can only be decided by the player himself. Earlier, Mitchell Starc replaces Jasprit Bumrah as No.1 Test bowler; Rishabh Pant matches Shubman Gill.
Steve Waugh said on Star Sports: “Only Rohit Sharma can answer that question. At that age, you've still got the skill and the know-how. But have you got the desire to be there, train hard, and make the sacrifices to prepare 100%? Rohit's the only one who can answer that. There's no doubt that he has the talent to score runs. But is he going to prepare at 100% and be fully committed to it?”
Steve Waugh sends clear message to Rohit Sharma over 2027 World Cup
The legendary Australian cricketer has noted that Rohit can play the ICC ODI World Cup 2027 if he stays fully committed and prepares seriously, as his talent is not enough now. The seasoned opener must work hard, maintain fitness, and show full commitment to play in the mega event.
Waugh said, “Regarding his 100% commitment and preparation, if the answer is yes, then he can make it. But if the answer to either of those questions is no, then he won't make it. It's obvious that he has the talent, but there is a lot more needed than talent to be successful, so it's really about 100% commitment.”
Rohit Sharma’s ODI numbers speak for themselves
Rohit’s ODI numbers prove he is one of the greatest batters in the format. He has scored 11,895 runs at an average close to 49 and a strike rate of 93.04, with 34 centuries in 288 ODIs so far. His World Cup record is even more impressive. Rohit has scored more than 1,500 runs in ODI World Cups at an average of 60.57 and a strike rate of 105.49.
He also holds the record for most World Cup centuries with seven and scored a record five centuries during the 2019 edition of the mega event. The former Indian skipper is now likely to be seen in action in the upcoming three-match ODI series against the West Indies, starting on September 27.
