Cricketing form can fade quickly but questions about intent and motivation tend to linger much longer. After India’s 1-2 ODI series loss to New Zealand, former New Zealand fast bowler Simon Doull sparked discussion by wondering whether Rohit Sharma still has the drive to push himself toward the 2027 ODI World Cup.
It was a forgettable series for the Indian captain with the bat. Rohit managed just 61 runs across three matches, averaging a little over 20, with 26 being his highest score. For a player of his stature, it stood out sharply. Since returning to international cricket in September, Rohit Sharma had looked rejuvenated, scoring a century and three half-centuries against Australia and South Africa. This New Zealand series marked the first time in that period he failed to register even a single fifty. The last such instance over a three-match ODI series had come back in 2021.
Simon Doull, speaking during the broadcast, reflected on how Rohit Sharma’s career has often been driven by clear targets. He pointed out that Rohit has usually thrived when chasing a major goal, whether it was a T20 World Cup or a 50-over World Cup. With the next ODI World Cup still some distance away in 2027, Simon Doull questioned whether that same intensity of hunger still exists.
Former India head coach Ravi Shastri echoed the sentiment, stressing that hunger is often the defining factor at the highest level. According to him, once players have achieved almost everything the game can offer, the desire to keep pushing becomes the real challenge.
Age naturally adds another layer to the debate. Rohit Sharma will be close to 40 when the 2027 World Cup begins in Africa. History suggests that very few players have succeeded at that age on the biggest stage, though Rohit has never been one to shy away from defying expectations.
Simon Doull also highlighted a practical concern beyond form and motivation — lack of match time. India’s next ODI assignment is not until July, when they tour England. While several players will stay busy with the T20 World Cup or domestic cricket, Rohit Sharma is unlikely to play much 50-over cricket in the coming months. His next appearance is expected to be in the IPL in March.
With limited opportunities in one-day cricket and big questions looming, Rohit Sharma now finds himself at a crossroads where form, fitness and hunger will all be tested.
