Ashwin Speaks Up on Rohit Sharma’s Future and Team Management
In a recent discussion on his YouTube channel, Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin expressed his concerns regarding the Indian cricket team’s treatment of senior players, particularly Rohit Sharma, ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Ashwin emphasized that if the management had no plans for Rohit in the upcoming World Cup, they should have communicated this right after India won the Champions Trophy in 2025. He believes that feeling unwanted can deeply affect a player’s performance, drawing from his own experiences during his career.
“We Must Value Our Seniors”
An emotional Ashwin underscored the importance of making players like Rohit feel valued. He compared his situation when he felt disregarded by the team management during the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. “When you start feeling that the management doesn’t want you, it’s hard to perform,” he explained.
He questioned the environment in which players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are expected to perform. “No one wants to stay in a place where they’re not welcome,” Ashwin pointed out.
Ashwin Critiques BCCI’s Timing
Ashwin’s comments come as speculation mounts about Rohit’s future in ODIs, especially after recent struggles in form. However, he firmly believes that experienced players still have much to offer, particularly on the challenging pitches in South Africa.
“My concern lies with the management,” Ashwin said, advocating for clarity in communication. He pointed out that if the team’s direction had already changed regarding Rohit, such decisions should have been made known much earlier.
“Why wait until 12 months before the World Cup to address this?” he asked. “If we’re heading to South Africa, we need both Rohit and Kohli’s experience.”
Reflecting on His Own Journey
Ashwin also shared his past feelings of uncertainty with the Indian team under former captain Gautam Gambhir, noting that he often felt unsure about his standing within the squad. He prefers direct communication over indirect suggestions, feeling that lack of clarity can lead to feelings of being unwanted.
The next match against England at Lord’s could mark Rohit Sharma’s final ODI, where he’s amassed 11,757 runs, placing him among the top run-scorers in ODI history. As discussions continue, Ashwin’s message is clear: respect and communication are essential for a team’s success.
