Former Australia opener Matthew Hayden believes Rohit Sharma alone will decide his international future based on hunger and energy levels. The Indian veteran scored a magnificent 138 at Lord’s chasing 388 against England. Yet retirement speculation continues to swirl around the 37-year-old batter. Hayden insists the beautiful game cannot be played forever by anyone at the highest level.
Hayden Warns Retirement Questions Are Inevitable
Hayden told ANI that every player faces scrutiny when they reach Rohit’s age. He cited Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir as previous examples of this cycle. The questions about IPL versus international cricket become unavoidable for seniors. Rohit has already retired from Test cricket and T20 internationals completely. Only he knows if the lion-like fighting spirit remains for a busy schedule. Such elite levels demand youth-like energy day after day on the field. The final call rests entirely with the player himself and no one else.
Rohit Silences Critics With Lord’s Masterclass
Rohit will turn 40 next year amid intense 2027 World Cup participation debates. Retirement rumors peaked before the Lord’s ODI but BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia dismissed them firmly. Rohit crafted 138 runs off 17 fours and five sixes in a 388 chase. He aggregated 175 runs across three matches at an average of 58.33. The century answered critics who questioned his place in the side strongly.
Zaheer Abbas Backs Both Veterans For 2027 World Cup
Pakistan legend Zaheer Abbas believes both Rohit and Virat have ample cricket left in them. He told a Pakistani TV channel that age should not block their World Cup path. The former captain rates them among the best cricketers currently playing worldwide. Abbas feels India would benefit greatly from their experience in the 2027 tournament. Their form and fitness will ultimately determine the final selection calls.
