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‘Rohit Sharma doesn’t need to prove’: Childhood coach rejects fitness doubts, says ODI World Cup is his target
Dinesh Lad insisted that Rohit Sharma has nothing left to prove, either as a player or in terms of fitness.
Rohit Sharma finds himself at a crucial stage of his career, with renewed scrutiny surrounding his place in India's ODI plans. The veteran opener lost the captaincy last year despite guiding India to Champions Trophy success, as selectors opted to look towards a younger leader for the build-up to the 2027 World Cup. Concerns over Rohit's fitness and long-term availability played a significant role in that decision.
Rather than stepping away, Rohit responded by focusing heavily on his conditioning. The former captain reportedly shed around 10 kg and worked hard to improve his fitness levels in an effort to extend his international career and remain a key figure in the ODI set-up.
However, fresh doubts have emerged following the hamstring injury he suffered during IPL 2026. The setback has raised questions about whether he can continue to meet the physical demands of top-level cricket, with some critics suggesting it may be time for India to move on. As the team plans for the future, Rohit's fitness and availability are once again under the spotlight.
Backing Rohit amid growing questions over his future, his childhood coach Dinesh Lad insisted that the former India captain has nothing left to prove, either as a player or in terms of fitness. Lad revealed that Rohit remains firmly focused on one final goal in his career, winning the ODI World Cup, and believes concerns over his physical condition are being overstated.
"Being a coach, I don't think he needs to prove anything to anyone. He badly wants to win the ODI World Cup. I have spoken to him and he is very categoric with what he wants in his career. I don't think he needs to prove his fitness. Despite the age factor, he is still fit enough," Lad told PTI Videos on Friday.
Rohit has faced a dip in his recent ODI form, managing just 61 runs across three innings during his last ODI appearance against New Zealand, the slump sparking scrutiny among critics.
He argued that Rohit's technique and game awareness remain among the best in the business, insisting that the 38-year-old still has a crucial role to play if India are to mount a serious challenge in major ICC tournaments.
"Critics keep talking. It's their job. India needs Rohit's experience if we want to reach the finals. Technique-wise there is no problem. Moreover, in 50-over cricket, you need to settle a bit. Rohit has got such technique that allows you to settle and then launch yourself," Lad said.
“Don't understand the critics' point of view on Rohit Sharma”
Further backing Rohit Sharma's case, Lad pointed to the opener's performances in IPL 2026 as evidence that his game remains in good shape.
"In the IPL also, he showed his technique. He wasn't only playing big shots but also taking singles and doubles. I don't understand the critics' point of view. My view is that he must be in the team," he said.
