Spin-bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule stated on Tuesday that Rohit Sharma is still a valuable member of the Indian ODI team not just for his batting but also for his leadership skills and experience, which positively impact skipper Shubman Gill.
Since he and Virat Kohli said goodbye to the Test format last year, the former India captain’s future in the ODI format and his preparations for the 2027 World Cup have been hot topics of discussion.
With just 77 runs in his last four ODI innings, Rohit has had a difficult run in the format.
“Rohit Sharma is an experienced player, he is a champion cricketer. He is somebody who adds value to this team with his experience not only batting wise but his leadership qualities also rubs off on to all the boys with Shubman (Gill) also,” PTI quoted Bahutule telling reporters ahead of the second ODI against Afghanistan.
Despite his accomplishments, according to Bahutule, Rohit’s grasp of the game and dedication to continuous progress have not waned.
“Him being in this side is definitely very, very important and he is somebody who understands each game, who understands what is expected from him and from the team. I think he is just been looking forward to every match and all the work he is putting in is like he has just started playing,” he added.
On the eve of Wednesday’s second ODI in Lucknow, Rohit, who was out cheaply in the first ODI against Afghanistan, had a lengthy nets session.
