India opener Rohit Sharma has found himself under the spotlight following another failure with the bat in the third and deciding ODI against New Zealand in Indore on Sunday. Rohit managed just 11 runs off 13 balls in a must-win clash, extending a run of low scores that has reignited discussions around his form and motivation at this stage of his international career.
India’s defeat by 41 runs not only handed New Zealand a historic 2-1 series victory but also intensified scrutiny on the Indian skipper, who is now active exclusively in the ODI format after retiring from T20Is and Test cricket.
Rohit Sharma’s recent ODI numbers raise concerns
While Rohit remains one of India’s most accomplished batters, his recent returns have been inconsistent. The veteran opener was named Player of the Series during India’s ODI series against Australia last year, showcasing his ability to dominate in the 50-over format. However, that momentum has not carried forward into recent assignments.
Against South Africa, Rohit accumulated 146 runs across three matches – a return that hinted at form without being emphatic. The New Zealand series, however, proved more challenging. Across three ODIs, Rohit managed just 61 runs, struggling to provide the solid starts India have traditionally relied on from him at the top of the order. His early dismissal in the Indore decider once again left India playing catch-up in a high-pressure chase.
Simon Doull questions Rohit’s “hunger” for the 2027 ODI World Cup
Former New Zealand fast bowler Simon Doull weighed in on Rohit’s struggles during commentary on the Star Sports Network, raising questions about whether the former Indian captain still has a clear goal driving his performances.
Doull suggested that throughout his career, Rohit has thrived when chasing a tangible objective, such as a forthcoming ICC tournament. With the next 50-over World Cup scheduled for 2027 in South Africa, Doull wondered whether that milestone feels too distant to provide immediate motivation. He noted that modern international calendars constantly shift focus between formats, which can impact players who are active in only one format.
Doull also highlighted the scheduling realities facing Rohit. With India currently building toward a T20 World Cup, one-day cricket has taken a back seat, resulting in fewer opportunities for ODI specialists to find rhythm. There has been limited 50-over cricket in the past four months, and the calendar suggests a similar gap in the months ahead.
“I feel with Rohit, he’s always had something to chase, as in a goal in mind, whether it be a T20 World Cup, whether it be a 50-over World Cup. I just wonder, that 27 World Cup in South Africa, is that too far away? Does he have that real hunger? Maybe it’s just, I mean, it’s different every year, isn’t it? Because we’re building up. We seem to be building up as national sides, no matter who you are,” said Doull.
“Each year, you’re building up to a different format of an ICC event, aren’t you?”
According to Doull, Rohit’s next appearance in India colours may not come until July during the tour of the UK, underlining how infrequent match time can affect consistency. When a player competes in only one format, extended breaks between series can disrupt momentum and make it harder to rediscover form quickly.
“When you’re only playing one format, you don’t get huge amounts of opportunities. The next time he’s in the Indian uniform will be, what, July in the UK? It’s a long way away.”
Despite the debate, Rohit’s importance to India’s ODI setup remains significant. His experience at the top and ability to perform in big matches continue to be valued by team management. However, with younger batters pushing for extended roles and competition intensifying, expectations around consistent contributions remain high.
