ENG vs IND: Amidst talks of retirement, Rohit got Morkel’s support, told why he is the strength of the team

By Samira Vishwas On Jul 18, 2026

Delhi: Before the third and decisive ODI against England to be held at Lord’s on Sunday, July 19, discussions are intense about Rohit Sharma’s form and future. Such reports are continuously coming out that he cannot be included in the plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup. The team management now wants to give opportunities to young players like Yashasvi Jaiswal. However, Team India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel has openly supported Rohit.

Morkel believes that experienced players like Rohit Sharma know how to get out of difficult times and his presence strengthens the Indian batting order.

Also read: ENG vs IND, 3rd ODI: When and where will the match take place? Know everything including pitch report, probable playing-11

Rohit knows how to make a comeback – Morkel

In the press conference before the match, Morne Morkel said that it is not easy to bat against the new ball in England and not only Rohit, many batsmen have faced problems.

He said, ‘I have full confidence that Rohit will find a solution to this. He has done this before also. His presence brings strength and confidence to the batting order. We are not worried about his form.

Rohit’s bat has not played yet in the series

Rohit Sharma’s performance in the current ODI series against England has not been as per expectations. In the first ODI, he scored 11 runs, while in the second match, he played a slow innings of 26 runs in 47 balls.

Meanwhile, some media reports claimed that the selectors want to prepare young batsman Yashasvi Jaiswal keeping in mind the 2027 ODI World Cup. However, these claims have not been officially confirmed.

Also read: Before Lord’s ODI, Rohit Sharma and Gautam Gambhir had a lot of fun, funny video surfaced.

BCCI rejected speculations of retirement

Amidst the news of Rohit Sharma’s retirement, BCCI Secretary Devjit Saikia has clarified the situation. He said that the third ODI against England will not be Rohit’s last international match.

According to Saikia, Rohit Sharma is still a part of the Indian team’s plans and as long as the selectors consider him suitable for the team, he will continue to play for India.

FAQ

What did Morne Morkel say on Rohit Sharma’s form?

Morne Morkel said that Rohit Sharma has made a great comeback from difficult times before. According to him, the team is not worried about Rohit’s form because his experience is very important for Indian batting.

Is Rohit Sharma going to retire after Lord’s ODI?

No. BCCI Secretary Devjit Saikia has rejected the news of Rohit Sharma’s retirement. He clarified that Rohit is still a part of the Indian team’s plans.