Rohit Sharma's time running out? Star batter endures horror run in New Zealand ODIs

Detailed summary

Rohit Sharma scored 30 runs across four innings during India's New Zealand ODI series. His struggles have renewed scrutiny over his form before the 2027 World Cup.

Rohit Sharma’s preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup have suffered a setback after a disappointing New Zealand series, with his struggles raising fresh questions about his form and future in India’s ODI set-up. Another difficult tour has put the spotlight firmly on the veteran opener at a crucial stage of the World Cup cycle.

India may have arrived in New Zealand with a 2-1 series lead, but their batting struggles have been hard to ignore. Rohit managed just 30 runs across his four innings, including two ducks, and fell for 7 in the fifth ODI.

More than the lack of runs, it was Rohit’s inability to look settled, even in a single innings on this tour, that would concern India. He struggled to find his timing and failed to provide the stability expected from an experienced opener.

The 244-run defeat in the fourth ODI, when India were bowled out for 89 while chasing 334, exposed deeper concerns about the team's ability to handle challenging conditions away from home. Head coach Gautam Gambhir admitted that the collapse was worrying, particularly with the 2027 World Cup approaching.

Gambhir also pointed out that the conditions in New Zealand were similar to what India could expect at next year's World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia. It was precisely the kind of examination Rohit and Virat Kohli needed to come through, but both senior batters struggled to make an impact beyond the opening ODI. Kohli, after scoring 74 in the first match, managed just 7 and 5 in the next two completed games.

There is, however, a strong counterargument to the growing criticism of Rohit. He remains India's second-highest ODI run-scorer since the 2023 World Cup. Yet his latest failures have sparked fresh debate among fans on social media, with questions emerging about his form and future.

Rohit's 2026 ODI campaign has had its bright moments. He struck 138 against England and followed it up with scores of 101 and 92 against the West Indies.

The concern is not just that the runs have…

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