The India captain emphasises his commitment to the 50-over format ahead of the 2027 World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
Former India skipper Rohit Sharma, aged 39, has retired from Tests and T20Is and now focuses exclusively on the 50-over format. The India captain has made clear that his approach to cricket remains unwavering, regardless of external discussion about his future and the upcoming World Cup.
Rohit spoke ahead of India's three-match ODI series against the West Indies. He outlined the personal discipline required to maintain his performance at the highest level, emphasising the shift in how he now manages his preparation and fitness independently.
"What all needs to be done to play well? Staying fit is necessary, staying in touch is necessary, watching the game is necessary. So, all these things I'm doing on my own time, on my own pace, which in the last 15 years I never really got the opportunity to do because we were always on the road," Rohit said on JioStar.
Rohit's preparation approach in the 50-over format
Rohit's approach reflects a significant change in his routine after more than a decade of continuous international cricket. The captain has found space to manage his fitness and tactical awareness independently, a luxury he did not previously enjoy during his years of constant touring.
"I'm enjoying every bit of it. The energy, the intensity, the mindset, the intent of going and doing what I've been doing is the same. That is never going to change," Rohit said.
Rohit has tasted success in T20 World Cups, winning the tournament twice for India in 2007 and 2024. However, his ODI World Cup record as captain includes a final appearance in 2023 at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, where India fell short against Australia. Unlike Virat Kohli, Rohit has stopped short of naming 2027 as his definite final tournament.
"Whatever happens outside of that, that will never change who I am as a cricketer, who I am as a player, and what I need to bring to the team. That will never change. That will always remain the same and it will always remain my priority," Rohit said.
"The thought will never cross my mind that the business I had is finished. As long as you're playing, there is always something to look forward to. And I'm looking forward to the World Cup, looking at what lies ahead for me," he concluded.
Rohit made 32 off 35 balls in the first ODI against West Indies in Thiruvananthapuram, striking three sixes and two fours. The performance came as India began their preparation for the 2027 World Cup. The 2027 ODI World Cup will be jointly hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia from October 4 to November 21.