Rohit Sharma Shuts Down Retirement Talk, Says His Focus Is Still on Playing for India

Rohit Sharma has dismissed the retirement rumours surrounding him, saying his only focus is to play for India and help the team win matches. The Indian captain said criticism and outside noise have followed him throughout his career, but they have never changed his approach.

Retirement speculation grew after Rohit’s poor run with the bat, with reports suggesting the third ODI at Lord’s could be his final match for India. However, the veteran opener answered those doubts in the best possible way by scoring a brilliant century.

Despite Rohit’s hundred, India could not complete the chase as England won the match and sealed the three-match ODI series 2-1.

Speaking after the game, Rohit made it clear that his responsibility has always been to perform for the team and represent the country with pride.

“My job is with the bat, come and play, represent my country, represent my team. That’s what I have been told to do since my debut so that’s what I am going ‌to ⁠do,” Rohit said.

The 39-year-old also said criticism has been a constant part of his journey since making his international debut and that he has learned to ignore it.

“The noise since I made my debut was there. And till the time I am going to stay here, it is always going to be there.”

Rohit added that he does not let outside opinions affect him because his attention remains on making meaningful contributions on the field.

“So it doesn’t really matter ⁠too much. What matters is what I do on the field, try and contribute to the success of the team. That’s all my focus is right now. And ⁠let the noise be there. If there is no noise, there is no fun.”

His comments leave little doubt that he is not thinking about retirement at the moment. Instead, Rohit remains committed to playing for India and contributing to the team’s success whenever he gets the opportunity.