Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) vice-president Rajeev Shukla has dismissed reports that Rohit Sharma is retiring from international cricket. Shukla said that there is no question of Rohit stepping away from the game, putting an end to the recent speculation about the former India captain's future.
Rohit silenced critics by smashing a century against England in the third ODI against England. The right-handed batter scored 138 runs off 110 balls with 17 fours and five maximums at a strike rate of 125.45. He became the first Indian cricketer to achieve an ODI hundred at Lord's Cricket Ground.
Rajeev Shukla Dismisses Rohit Sharma Retirement Rumours
Speaking at the UP T20 League mini-auction in Agra, Rajeev Shukla dismissed reports that Rohit Sharma is planning to retire from international cricket. He said that the rumours circulating in the media and on social media have no basis and urged fans not to believe them.
"Rohit Sharma is a part of our team and is continuing to play. The things being circulated in the media and on social media have no meaning. As of now, there is no question of his retirement."
Rohit Sharma remains an important member of India's ODI setup. The former India captain has scored 379 runs at an average of 42.11 and a strike rate of 99.21, including one century and one half-century. He recorded scores of 11 and 26 in the first two games of the recent series.
Everyone Is Entitled to Their Opinion - Rajeev Shukla Backs Gautam Gambhir
Rajeev Shukla also expressed his support for head coach Gautam Gambhir. Despite criticism following India's recent white-ball defeats to Ireland and England, he said that there is no need to change the current leadership.
"Everyone is entitled to their opinion, but the decision on who stays in the team and who does not rests with the selectors. The Indian team is performing well and winning matches, so there is no need for any changes at present."
India recently lost the ODI series 2-1 to England. Before the England tour, they suffered a 2-0 series defeat to Ireland and a 4-0 loss in the T20I series against England.
UP T20 League Continues to Support Young Talent
Rajeev Shukla attended the event to inaugurate the UP T20 League mini-auction and praised the tournament's role in developing young cricketers. He said that the league has helped several players earn IPL contracts and noted that 18 players from Uttar Pradesh are currently part of IPL teams.
He also highlighted the UPCA's Speed Hunt initiative, which identified 38 fast bowlers capable of bowling at 135 km/h or more. Twelve of those bowlers were included in the mini-auction, giving them an opportunity to impress the franchises.
According to UPCA chairman Dr. Sanjay Kapoor, 282 players entered the auction pool for six franchises, with 45 players set to be selected. Shukla added that while Ranji Trophy opportunities are limited, the UP T20 League gives more than 120 young players valuable experience every season.
