Rohit Sharma makes first public appearance since ODI captaincy axe, sends strong message to selectors | Cricket News
NEW DELHI: Former India captain Rohit Sharma made his first public appearance since being stripped of the ODI captaincy — and he did it in trademark style. Attending the 27th edition of the CEAT Cricket Rating Awards in Mumbai on Tuesday, Rohit looked leaner, fitter, and more determined than ever, sending a strong message to selectors that he remains ready for the international stage.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!The veteran opener, who led India to two successive ICC titles — the 2024 T20 World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy earlier this year — stole the spotlight at the glitzy event. Receiving a special recognition award from Sunil Gavaskar, Rohit charmed fans and experts alike with his renewed energy and physical transformation.Rohit’s fitness has often been a talking point, with critics quick to scrutinise his appearance. But on Tuesday night, the 38-year-old looked in peak form — slim, sharp, and confident — a clear statement of intent to those questioning his readiness.
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Having shed noticeable weight, Rohit’s transformation was evident as he interacted warmly with fans and the media. His focus, however, remained on cricket. “I love playing against them. I love going to Australia. It’s a very challenging country to play cricket. People there love the game as well,” Rohit said about the upcoming ODI series starting October 19.He added, “Australia is a different challenge every time they have played against us. Having been there now several times, I do understand what to expect. Hopefully we can go there and do what the Indian team is supposed to do and get the result in our favour.”
Rohit Sharma (R) with Shreyas Iyer and Sanju Samson
Despite losing the ODI captaincy to Shubman Gill, Rohit’s words and presence exuded the confidence of a player far from done. The veteran, who guided India to two unbeaten ICC campaigns, now eyes another successful tour Down Under — one that could reaffirm his place in India’s long-term plans ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup.
