‘Rohit Sharma is 100% eligible for World Cup’ - Childhood coach Dinesh Lad backs ex-Indian captain

Dinesh Lad, Rohit Sharma's childhood coach, is backing the opening batter to ignore critics despite his continued lean patch in the ongoing ODI series against England. Rohit managed just 26 runs off 47 deliveries in the second ODI at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff on Thursday, July 16, 2026, falling to Will Jacks as he looked to sweep. The opener gloved the ball to England's wicketkeeper Jos Buttler, departing after adding 40 runs with Virat Kohli in a second-wicket partnership.

The 39-year-old's form concerns have mounted across the two-match tour so far. At Edgbaston in the first ODI on July 14, he managed only 11 runs off 21 deliveries before edging Sam Curran to Harry Brook. His combined tally of 37 runs across two matches has intensified scrutiny from critics questioning both his fitness and place in the side as India prepare for the 2027 ODI World Cup.

"I don't think Rohit is insecure, he would have retired had it been that. People have a lot of expectations and a lot of hype around him. But I feel he is hundred per cent eligible for World Cup," Lad said as quoted by MyKhel.

He elaborated that Rohit is deeply committed to winning the World Cup and remains completely clear about his career direction. Lad dismissed concerns about Rohit's physical condition, insisting the 39-year-old remains fit despite his age and that critics will always voice opinions, but India require his experience if they wish to reach the tournament final.

I don't think he needs to prove his fitness: Dinesh Lad

In 50-over cricket, batters need time to find their rhythm, and Rohit possesses the method that enables him to settle at the crease before launching himself with intensity, Lad explained. The coach reminded Rohit of his masterful 2019 World Cup performance as a template he should channel again during this challenging phase. Lad also pushed back against claims that retirement from Tests and T20Is means Rohit is idle.

“Being a coach, I don’t think he needs to prove anything to anyone. He badly wants to win the ODI World Cup. I have spoken to him and he is very categoric with what he wants in career. I don’t think he needs to prove his fitness. Despite the age factor, he is still fit enough,” said Lad as quoted by Sportstar.

The coach stressed that the upcoming six months are crucial for the entire Indian team, not just Rohit, and backed the opener to flourish once given the opportunity. India face England in the third ODI at Lord's on Sunday, July 19, as they bid to secure the series.