Sadagoppan Ramesh Criticizes India’s Handling of Rohit Sharma Ahead of England ODI Series

Sadagoppan Ramesh, a former India opener, has strongly criticised the Indian team management over their treatment of Rohit Sharma during the ongoing ODI series against England. His comments follow reports that the final ODI at Lord’s could be Sharma’s last appearance for India after another disappointing batting display.

Rohit Sharma’s future in the 50‑over format has been under intense scrutiny since his removal as India’s ODI captain last year. As younger batsmen push for opportunities and the 2027 ODI World Cup draws near, speculation about the veteran’s place in the squad has intensified. Ramesh, however, contends that judging a player of Sharma’s calibre on a few matches is unjust.

Sadagoppan Ramesh Questions India’s Management of Rohit Sharma

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ramesh expressed disappointment over the uncertainty surrounding Sharma’s future, arguing that even the greatest players cannot perform consistently when they fear being dropped for each match.

He highlighted the double standard that selectors and coaches enjoy long‑term contracts while legendary cricketers are expected to justify their positions after every game. Ramesh added that established players deserve greater respect after serving the country for over a decade.

“No one can perform if there is a sword hanging over their heads on a per‑match basis. Will the selector or coach accept their job depending on winning every series? No. That is why they get contracts for two or three years straight. Deciding a player’s fate based on one or two matches is wrong, especially when it concerns legends. I don’t understand why this management has a problem with superstars. Nobody becomes a superstar overnight; it takes consistent performance for 15 years. They must be given the respect and treatment they deserve,” Ramesh said.

Pressure May Have Altered Rohit Sharma’s Batting Approach, Says Ramesh

Ramesh suggested that the ongoing speculation about Sharma’s future has altered the fearless batting style that made him one of the most destructive ODI openers. He pointed to Sharma’s aggressive approach during the 2023 ODI World Cup, where the captain frequently sacrificed his wicket to provide rapid starts for the team.

According to Ramesh, the pressure to retain his position has forced Sharma to bat more cautiously, stripping away one of his key strengths. He also stressed that Sharma’s experience could be invaluable during the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa, where bounce and pace are expected to suit his style.

“Remember how Rohit Sharma played in the 2023 World Cup. For a player who was ready to throw his wicket away to get the team off to a fast start, they have turned him into someone who must not lose his wicket to keep his place under pressure. With the World Cup in South Africa, where there will be bounce, Rohit’s selection should only be helped, given his ability against bounce. If India plays the World Cup without Rohit, the loss is not only his but also the team’s,” he concluded.

During the current ODI series against England, Rohit Sharma has struggled, posting an average of 18.50 in the first two matches. Nonetheless, his overall ODI record remains among the finest in world cricket, with 1,575 runs at an average exceeding 60 in World Cups—a record seven centuries among them.

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