![Rohit Sharma, Lionel Messi [Source: AFP]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1784365303260_LionelMessi.jpg?type=hq)
Rohit Sharma, Lionel Messi [Source: AFP]
Rohit Sharma has once again found himself at the centre of discussions regarding his ODI future following reports claiming that the Lord's ODI is likely to be his last, with the veteran opener expected to retire.
Notably, this comes after Rohit endured a lean run in the three-match ODI series against England. Notably, Rohit struggled to make a significant impact with the bat, scoring just 11 and 26 in the first two matches with the average of 18.50.
Consequently, questions have continued to emerge about whether he can remain a key part of India's long-term plans.
Mohammad Kaif Draws Lionel Messi Comparison With Rohit Sharma
Despite the growing debate, former India star batter Mohammad Kaif has strongly backed Rohit Sharma to remain part of India's squad for 2027 ODI World Cup.
Interestingly, Kaif used football legend Lionel Messi as an example to explain why experienced players remain invaluable even in the later stages of their careers.
"Lionel Messi is 39 years old and his team has reached the FIFA World Cup final. He didn't score in the semifinal but provided two assists.
That's what experience brings. When you have younger players who can finish the job, experienced players know how to guide them and create opportunities. So just like Messi is for Argentina, Virat Kohli and Rohit are for India in the World Cup," Kaif said on Cricbuzz.
Also Read: Virat Kohli Predicted To Follow Rohit Sharma In ODI Retirement
Why Does Mohammad Kaif Back Rohit Sharma?
Furthermore, Kaif stressed that India would greatly benefit from having both Rohit and Virat Kohli in the squad alongside young captain Shubman Gill during 2027 ODI World Cup.
"Whether it's football or cricket, experience plays a huge role. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are considered among the greatest ODI players, so India will 100 per cent need them, especially under captain Shubman Gill in South African conditions," Kaif added.
It is important to note that Rohit Sharma has repeatedly expressed his desire to continue playing until 2027 ODI World Cup. However, his recent struggles have only added fuel to the retirement debate.
Notably, reports suggesting that Rohit could be phased out before the marquee event have dominated social media in recent weeks.
It is important to note that the BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia dismissed rumours that the 3rd ODI against England at Lord's would mark Rohit's final ODI appearance.
Rohit Sharma Yet To Find His Best Form In 2026
In 2026, Rohit's overall ODI numbers have done little to silence the critics. The experienced batter has managed only 241 runs in 8 matches at an average of 30.12, while maintaining a strike rate of 88.6.
Having already retired from both T20Is and Tests, the 39-year-old remains focused solely on the 50-over format.
Since making his ODI debut against Ireland in Belfast on June 23, 2007, Rohit has established himself as one of India's greatest white-ball openers.
Also Read: Factors Apart From Rohit Sharma To Watch Out For In India vs England 3rd ODI
.jpg?type=mq "Factors to watch out for in IND vs ENG 3rd ODI")
