Senior cricket journalist Vimal Kumar dismissed the growing speculation surrounding Rohit Sharma's ODI retirement, claiming that the reports circulating on social media were completely false. Addressing the rumours in a video, Kumar said he had personally spoken to multiple BCCI officials and members of the Indian team management before reaching his conclusion. His remarks came after reports suggested that Rohit had been informed he was no longer part of India's plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup, fuelling speculation that the ongoing England series could be his last.

Kumar insisted there was no truth to the retirement reports and urged fans not to believe unverified claims. He said, "I have spoken to BCCI officials and people in the team management. Everyone has said that the news about Rohit Sharma's retirement is false." He further added, "There has been no discussion about Rohit's retirement, and nothing of this sort has happened." According to Kumar, the veteran opener remains focused on the ongoing ODI series and continues to be available for India.

The clarification came as speculation intensified following India's defeat in the second ODI against England. While questions were raised over Rohit's future because of his recent form, the Indian team management also backed the veteran batter, with batting coach Sitanshu Kotak stating that Rohit was "too good" a player to feel any pressure and that a big innings could be around the corner. As of now, neither Rohit Sharma nor the BCCI has announced any decision regarding his retirement from ODI cricket, leaving the rumours without official confirmation.

"Lord's ODI won't be his last match": BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia dismisses retirement reports

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia firmly dismissed the speculation surrounding Rohit Sharma's ODI retirement, stating that there had been no discussions with the veteran batter about stepping away from international cricket after the third ODI against England at Lord's on July 19. His clarification came amid widespread reports claiming that the match could be Rohit's final appearance in ODI cricket. Saikia stressed that the rumours were baseless and reaffirmed that the Indian captain continues to remain an important part of the team's plans.

Addressing the speculation, Saikia said, "There are lot of speculations going on in media about Rohit Sharma's future. I want to firmly assert that there has been no such discussion that Rohit will be playing his last match at Lord's on Sunday." He also made it clear that the BCCI had not held any conversation with Rohit regarding retirement.

Backing the veteran opener, Saikia added, "Rohit is a regular member of the Indian ODI team and he will continue to represent the country as long as he is in the scheme of things. In other words, Lord's ODI won't be his last match." His statement effectively rejected reports suggesting that the ongoing England series would mark the end of Rohit's international career.

The clarification has brought relief to Indian cricket fans, especially after retirement rumours gathered momentum following India's recent performances. While Rohit's future continues to be a topic of discussion, the BCCI's latest statement indicates that no decision has been taken regarding his retirement. As things stand, Rohit remains available for selection and is expected to continue leading India's ODI side as long as he remains a key member of the team's plans.