Rohit Sharma has dismissed speculation surrounding his ODI future, insisting his sole focus remains representing India after widespread reports suggested the England series could be his final appearance in international cricket.
The India opener broke his silence following the 2-1 ODI series defeat to England, where he returned to form with a blistering 138 in the decider at Lord's. His comments come days after multiple reports claimed the selectors were planning to move on from the veteran opener, while BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia had already denied suggestions that Rohit's international career was coming to an end.
Rohit Sharma says outside noise "doesn't matter"
Speaking in an interview with the BCCI, Rohit said speculation has been a constant throughout his career and insisted it has never
affected his approach.
"My job is with the bat. Come and play, represent my country. That's what I have been told to do since I made my debut. That's what I am going to do," Rohit said.
The 39-year-old acknowledged the scrutiny around his future but maintained that only his performances on the field matter.
"Since I made my debut, the noise was there. Till the time I am going to be there, the noise will be there. It doesn't matter to me. What matters is what I do on the field. I want to try and contribute to the success of the team. That's all my focus is. "
Rohit also joked that public debate is simply part of elite sport.
"If there is no noise, there is no fun. My job is inside. Their job is outside. That's how I look at it. "
BCCI and Shubman Gill also reject retirement rumours
Rohit's remarks come after BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia publicly stated that the opener would continue playing for India beyond the England series.
India captain Shubman Gill also rejected speculation after the third ODI, saying there had been no discussion within the dressing room about Rohit's retirement.
"He's not told us anything. I think it's all out in the media, but there's not been any discussion like that in the team," Gill said after the match.
Rohit Sharma returns to form despite India's series defeat
Although India lost the series 2-1 after England secured a 27-run victory at Lord's, Rohit responded to the intense scrutiny with his best innings of the tour.
The opener smashed 138 off 110 deliveries, striking 17 fours and five sixes as he nearly led India to a record chase before England closed out the match.
His century came after scores of 11 and 26 in the opening two ODIs and was widely viewed as a timely reminder of his value to India's 50-over side.
Rohit Sharma remains focused on the 2027 World Cup
Rohit's latest comments also align with his previously stated ambition of playing in the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Earlier this year, the veteran said winning the 50-over World Cup remained one of his biggest career goals.
"I definitely want to go out there and win the World Cup for my country. I really want that trophy, so I'm going to try and do everything in my power and capacity to work hard and get it. "
While speculation over his long-term future is unlikely to disappear completely, Rohit's latest comments make one thing clear: he has no intention of letting outside noise dictate when his international career comes to an end.
