As speculation grows that third ODI against England at Lord's could mark Rohit Sharma’s final outing in an Indian shirt, his childhood coach, Dinesh Lad, has shared a poignant perspective on the legendary batsman's future. Rather than focusing on a looming goodbye at the historic venue, Lad is holding onto a much larger ambition for his mentee.
When confronted with the idea of Lord's being Rohit’s international swan song, Lad made it clear that he isn't ready to see the Indian star step away just yet. Speaking to ABP News, the veteran coach revealed that his ultimate dream is to see Rohit push through to the 2027 World Cup, prioritizing ultimate glory over an immediate farewell.
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Going by the reports, the national selection committee recently held a meeting with Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir to outline the roadmap for the 2027 World Cup. During this discussion, management made it clear that Yashasvi Jaiswal has been identified as Rohit's successor, with plans to give the young opener an extended run to cement his spot ahead of the tournament.
I want to see Rohit Sharma play in the 2027 World Cup: Dinesh Lad
The selectors also delivered a candid assessment regarding the current England series, informing Rohit that he wasn't considered for selection as they preferred to give Jaiswal the opportunity. They emphasised that any future fitness improvements would not alter this strategic shift, leaving the final call on his international future entirely in his own hands. Meanwhile, responding to concerns over Rohit's recent lean patch, his boyhood coach Dinesh Lad brushed off the scrutiny, insisting that form is temporary and reiterating his singular dream to see his ward feature in the 2027 tournament.
"Form fluctuates but I want to see him play in the 2027 World Cup," Lad told ABP News.
'If he retires, it will definitely be the end of an era'
Dinesh Lad is adamant that his former pupil should keep playing at all costs, even while acknowledging that Rohit Sharma's departure would signal the definitive conclusion of a golden generation in Indian cricket. Defending the veteran batsman against recent scrutiny, Lad emphasized that temporary dips in form do not diminish greatness. While he chose not to second-guess the selection committee's underlying strategy, his personal wish remains entirely unchanged: to see Rohit feature in the next World Cup.
'If he retires, it will definitely be the end of an era. Rohit is a great player. His form fluctuates, but that doesn't mean he's a bad player," he added.
The childhood mentor consistently steered clear of controversy when pressed on more sensitive topics, such as Rohit's age of 39 or the decision to strip him of the captaincy following Champions Trophy 2025. Refusing to speculate on whether age has influenced the selectors' blueprint, Lad simply reiterated that the opener still earns his place on the field right now. He maintained a diplomatic stance on the leadership change as well, stating firmly that he would not comment on or speak out against administrative decisions.