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Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Kamran Akmal has showered praise on Rohit Sharma after the ex-Indian skipper produced a stunning century in the third and final ODI against England at Lord's, putting an end to the growing retirement speculation surrounding his future.
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Although India fell short in their chase as England clinched the series, Rohit's magnificent 138 off 110 balls emerged as the biggest talking point of the contest. The veteran opener took the attack to England's bowlers from the outset, reminding fans why he continues to be regarded as one of the finest white-ball batters of his generation.
His innings also came at a crucial time, with reports and speculation over the past few weeks suggesting that the 39-year-old's ODI future was under scrutiny.
Kamran Akmal applauds Rohit's statement knock
Reacting on The Game Plan podcast, Akmal said Rohit's innings was the perfect response to those questioning his place in India's plans and insisted performances like these are why experienced players should never be written off too soon.
"Overall, England deserved to win the series, but Rohit Sharma’s century was the biggest story of the day. It was a statement innings from a player who reminded everyone why he is still one of the world’s best ODI batters."
Akmal added that great cricketers should always be judged by their performances on the field rather than outside noise, insisting that legends like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli decide their own future when they feel the time is right.
The former Pakistan international also highlighted the immense sacrifices both senior Indian stars have made throughout their careers, saying their longevity and consistency are the reasons they continue to command respect across world cricket.
Rohit ends retirement debate with the bat
Coming into the series finale, Rohit had been under immense pressure after a lean run of scores, with several reports claiming that he might not feature in India's plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
However, the former Indian captain unequivocally answered his critics with one of his finest ODI knocks in recent years. His 138-run blitz kept India in the chase despite regular wickets falling around him and briefly raised hopes of an improbable victory.
Although England eventually secured the win, Rohit Sharma's century shifted the focus away from the result, with several current and former cricketers lauding the veteran opener for proving he still has plenty to offer at the highest level.
The innings also served as a timely reminder of Rohit's ability to deliver under pressure, reinforcing his importance to India's ODI setup as discussions over his future continue.
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