Irfan Pathan Reveals What Rohit Sharma Told Him On “Long Call” About His ODI Retirement

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has dismissed retirement rumours around Rohit Sharma, revealing that the India captain is eyeing the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Pathan said he had a “long call” with Rohit recently, where the 38-year-old confirmed he wants to continue playing and is motivated to feature in the next World Cup.

Reports last month suggested Rohit and Virat Kohli could be on their final international tour when India visit Australia. But Rohit’s successful completion of the BCCI’s new Bronco fitness test, followed by his conversation with Pathan, has ended speculation.

“Rohit told me he is very keen to continue. He has been a fantastic leader and one of the greatest ODI players. We all remember the heartbreak of the 2023 final, but he wants to keep going as a player,” Pathan said during a Sony Sports Network discussion.

However, Pathan highlighted a looming challenge for both Rohit and Kohli, limited ODI game time before 2027.

India will play only 27 ODIs until the tournament, and with both having retired from Tests and T20Is, Pathan warned that lack of match practice could be a bigger hurdle than fitness.

“Age doesn’t matter if you’re fit. But game time is the issue. Motivation won’t be a problem for Rohit or Kohli, but with fewer ODIs, they’ll have to find ways to stay sharp,” Pathan added.