Former India cricketer Robin Uthappa has voiced his concerns over how Rohit Sharma’s batting style might change after being removed as ODI captain. Uthappa fears that the star opener, known for his aggressive approach in recent years, may now become more cautious in a bid to secure his place in the team.
Rohit and Kohli to Be Picked on ‘Merit’ Basis
The Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee recently decided to remove Rohit Sharma from captaincy, with Shubman Gill taking over the reins. Reports suggest that both Rohit and Virat Kohli will now be selected purely on performance, without the extended backing they once enjoyed based on their illustrious careers.
The decision, made with the 2027 ODI World Cup in mind, aims to give Gill time to build his team ahead of the tournament. Although Rohit retains his place as opener for now, questions about his future and approach have started to surface.
Uthappa: “Rohit Might Slow Down His Game”
Speaking on the Good Areas podcast, Uthappa praised Rohit’s evolution as an ODI batter, highlighting how his strike rate surged in recent years.
“Rohit Sharma is someone who has upped the ante even in one-day cricket,” Uthappa said. “Over the last 3-4 years, he’s played at a much quicker clip — a big transformation. Earlier, his first fifty would take 60-70 balls, then the pace would pick up as the innings went on.”
The shift in approach became clear after 2022, when Rohit’s strike rate jumped from below 100 for most of his career to 114.22, 117.07, 141.44, and 108.24 in successive years — impressive numbers in the 50-over format.
However, Uthappa worries that uncertainty over his place might push Rohit — and even Kohli — to be more cautious.
“The way he approaches one-day cricket has changed. He’s found a sweet spot, but I feel he might be a little more circumspect now,” Uthappa explained. “It’s harder to drop a captain than a player. With selectors saying both will be picked on merit, they might hold back instead of being ultra-aggressive.”
An Ironic Shift in Philosophy
If Rohit does scale back his aggression, Uthappa believes it would be ironic. After all, Rohit himself championed an attacking brand of cricket in ODIs and T20Is, giving players the confidence to play freely without fear of losing their spots.
Now, with the pressure of selection looming, the man who encouraged fearless cricket might have to dial back his own instincts — a twist that could redefine the final phase of his illustrious career.
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