Former India selector Jatin Paranjape has revealed that Rohit Sharma was carrying a hamstring injury during the Champions Trophy 2025, where he led India to the title and scored 76 runs in the final against New Zealand. Paranjape said Rohit had been struggling with the issue for four to five months and still chose to play through the pain. He further admitted being surprised at Rohit’s sudden retirement from Test cricket, suggesting the India ODI skipper had more to offer in the red-ball format.
Rohit had announced his retirement from Test cricket just before the England series in May 2025. The decision followed his retirement from T20Is after India’s title win in the T20 World Cup 2024.
Rohit Sharma is now only playing ODIs and is eyeing one last big goal, which is winning the 2027 ODI World Cup. With the Champions Trophy already in the bag, it's the only major ICC white-ball trophy missing from his collection. Rohit is currently on a break with his family and is expected to return for the ODI series against Australia in October.
Jatin Paranjape Reveals Rohit Sharma Battled Injury in Champions Trophy Win
Paranjape revealed that Rohit played through pain for several months, including the Champions Trophy held in Dubai and Pakistan earlier this year. Despite not being at full fitness, the right-hander led India to glory, adding yet another ICC title to his cabinet. He also believes that Rohit could have extended his Test career a bit.
"He could have played a little bit more. I thought maybe for a couple more years. Rohit Sharma was also struggling with a hamstring injury for the last four or five months. He didn't get a lot of rest," Paranjape said as quoted to Times of India.
"I thought he could have played a little more because he was batting superbly. You know, he'd score 10 or 15 or 20, but that hook shot - that was his trademark. Amazing," he added.
Doubts Over Rohit Sharma's ODI future
Although Rohit remains committed to playing ODIs, there are questions over how long he can continue. With the 2027 World Cup still two years away, reports suggest that Shubman Gill could take over as captain soon.
It is being claimed that Gill could lead the side in the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia in October. There is also speculation that India may tour Sri Lanka in August, but nothing has been confirmed officially.
While Rohit has expressed his willingness to win the ODI World Cup, his fitness and form will be closely watched in the coming months.
