Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Kamran Akmal has lauded Indian veteran Rohit Sharma for putting together a splendid innings under pressure, saying that the Indian opener answered every question about his future with a spectacular hundred in the deciding ODI against England at Lord's.
Though India lost the game by 27 runs, thus surrendering the three-match series 2-1, Rohit's outstanding knock of 138 quelled all the speculations surrounding his international future. According to Akmal, Rohit demonstrated the qualities that have been the hallmark of his success and made him one of the most talented players in ODIs.
“Overall, England deserved to win the series, but Rohit Sharma’s century was the biggest story of the day. It was a statement innings from a player who reminded everyone why he is still one of the world’s best ODI batters. There was so much speculation about his future. Rumours were being spread that he was no longer part of India’s plans and wouldn’t make it to the 2027 World Cup. Today, Rohit answered all of those questions with his bat,” he said on “The Game Plan” podcast.
Rohit's brilliant knock came after he flopped in the first two games, registering scores of 11 and 26 respectively. However, bouncing back, Rohit took advantage of the opportunity to show his class. During his innings, he smacked 17 boundaries and five sixes. Rohit's performance was also crucial as it further strengthened his position in the team ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup.