Prospects for Rohit Sharma: What’s on the Horizon? | Cricbuzz.com

### Rohit Sharma’s Future: What’s Next for the Indian Cricket Maestro?

**Authored by Vijay Tagore**

**Update:**

Rohit Sharma proudly held the Champions Trophy aloft in Dubai, stunning the cricket world once again © Getty.

In the aftermath of India’s triumph at the Champions Trophy in Dubai, Rohit Sharma decisively addressed speculations about his ODI career. “To clear the air, I’m not planning to retire from this format anytime soon,” he declared. Expounding on his future plans, Sharma expressed his preference for a short-term focus. “Currently, I’m not projecting too far into the future. My aim is to perform with consistency and maintain a positive mindset. As for the 2027 World Cup, it’s premature to determine anything yet,” he stated during an interview with the official broadcaster.

Sharma further reflected, “My approach has always been to advance my career incrementally. Speculating too far ahead has never been my style. Presently, I am cherishing my cricket journey and the camaraderie within this team. My hope is that my presence positively impacts my teammates. At this juncture, that’s what truly matters.”

While his declarations have quelled immediate conjectures about his future, several questions endure—from the longevity of his career to his prospects in the 2027 World Cup, and notably his future in Test cricket. The cloud of uncertainty, particularly over his Test career, continues to loom.

Informed sources indicate that Sharma is committed to extending his ODI run until the 2027 Men’s Cricket World Cup, planned to unfold across South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. By then, Sharma will reach 40, and insiders reveal that he has devised a comprehensive strategy to stay fit and competitive for the African spectacle. Teaming up with Abhishek Nayar, the assistant coach of the Indian team, Sharma is focusing on maintaining his fitness, refining his batting, and fine-tuning his approach. Known for his aggressive and unorthodox style at the top of the order, Sharma has profoundly influenced the team’s campaigns in the 2023 World Cup, the 2024 T20 World Cup, and the recent Champions Trophy.

With approximately 27 ODIs remaining before the world tournament—and possibly more slotted close to the event—Sharma intends to use these matches for thorough preparation. Nayar, renowned for his tactical acumen and modern coaching methodologies, will likely play a pivotal role in Sharma’s preparation. Many Indian players, including KL Rahul, have attested to Nayar’s exceptional guidance, and Sharma aims to join forces with his former Mumbai teammate as he readies for the big stage.

Regarding his future in Test cricket, no conclusive decisions have been made. His recent Test performances have been subpar, culminating in the unforeseen decision to withdraw himself from the playing XI during the Test in Sydney in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Nonetheless, it is believed that Sharma desires to persevere in both Test and ODI formats, with his performance in the upcoming IPL acting as a crucial determining factor.

The selectors are yet to deliberate on Sharma’s future. When queried about his inclusion in the England series slated for June and July, an insider commented, “Let us first conclude the IPL. Only an astrologer can foresee so far into the future.”

— © Cricbuzz