BCCI official Devajit Saikia defends Rohit Sharma status for ODI team selection
Yahoo Sports • 2 min read • Latest: Sep 3, 2026, 6:36 PM
Last updated Sep 3, 2026
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia publicly dismissed speculation regarding the ODI future of Rohit Sharma following a review meeting in Mumbai on Thursday. Saikia cited the 39-year-old’s recent performance, including a 138-run innings at Lord's during the tour of England, as evidence of his continued value to the side. Despite reports suggesting selectors may consider phasing out the veteran for the 2027 ODI World Cup, the board confirmed he remains a regular member of the squad. Rohit, who has already retired from Test and T20I cricket, previously stated that external speculation does not influence his on-field focus. The board's stance comes as team leadership, including ODI captain Shubman Shubman Gill and head coach Gautam Gambhir, prepares for future selection cycles.
- •Devajit Saikia defended Rohit Sharma against claims that he should be removed from the ODI squad.
- •Rohit Sharma remains the only international format for the player after retiring from Tests and T20Is.
- •The 39-year-old recorded a 138-run century at Lord's during the recent tour of England.
- •BCCI officials held a review meeting in Mumbai on Thursday to discuss current squad composition.
- 8:06 AMYahoo Sports — Rohit Sharma remains in contention for 2027 World Cup, BCCI dismisses retirement speculation
- 6:36 PMYahoo Sports — ‘What more do you want?’: BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia’s blunt message on Rohit Sharma amid 2027 World Cup speculation
"The BCCI confirmed that Rohit Sharma is still in the running for the 2027 ODI World Cup following impressive performances. Board secretary Devajit Saikia addressed rumors and reiterated Sharma's form during a performance review meeting at BCCI headquarters. Key officials emphasized discussions on team performance and upcoming series, while the focus on selector contracts was minimal. The BCCI aims to enhance player rest and adaptability for substantial tours.
"BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia defended Rohit Sharma's continued high-level performance in ODIs. He questioned the ongoing speculation regarding the veteran player's future in the team. Sharma himself has previously stated that external noise does not significantly impact his focus. The board's stance comes as the 2027 ODI World Cup approaches. India will eventually need to consider succession planning for the team.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsSep 4, 2026, 8:06 AMRohit Sharma remains in contention for 2027 World Cup, BCCI dismisses retirement speculation
The BCCI confirmed that Rohit Sharma is still in the running for the 2027 ODI World Cup following impressive performances. Board secretary Devajit Saikia addressed rumors and reiterated Sharma's form during a performance review meeting at BCCI headquarters. Key officials emphasized discussions on team performance and upcoming series, while the focus on selector contracts was minimal. The BCCI aims to enhance player rest and adaptability for substantial tours.
- Yahoo SportsSep 3, 2026, 6:36 PM‘What more do you want?’: BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia’s blunt message on Rohit Sharma amid 2027 World Cup speculation
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia defended Rohit Sharma's continued high-level performance in ODIs. He questioned the ongoing speculation regarding the veteran player's future in the team. Sharma himself has previously stated that external noise does not significantly impact his focus. The board's stance comes as the 2027 ODI World Cup approaches. India will eventually need to consider succession planning for the team.
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