Sourav Ganguly dismisses talks of Rohit Sharma’s ODI retirement

Former BCCI president and India captain Sourav Ganguly has dismissed speculation surrounding Rohit Sharma’s potential retirement from One Day Internationals (ODIs) after the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Ganguly reminded fans that Rohit led India to a World Cup victory less than a year ago and continues to perform at an elite level.

At 37, Rohit recently announced his retirement from T20Is after India’s triumph in the 2024 T20 World Cup. With the next ODI World Cup still two years away, speculation has grown that he may step aside to make way for younger players. Reports suggested that India’s chief selector Ajit Agarkar would discuss Rohit’s future after the tournament, while Shubman Gill also hinted that the India captain would make a decision post-Champions Trophy.

However, Ganguly strongly opposed the idea, questioning the need for retirement discussions when Rohit remains in top form.

Ganguly: ‘Why is retirement even a question?’

"Why is there talk of Rohit Sharma's retirement? Why is this even a question? He won the World Cup just a few months ago," Ganguly told the media on Saturday.

The former captain emphasized that India has consistently been among the best ODI teams in recent years, having reached the 2023 World Cup final, won the 2024 T20 World Cup, and remained unbeaten in the ongoing Champions Trophy.

"I don't know what the selectors are thinking, but Rohit is playing very well. India played in the 2023 World Cup finals, won the 2024 T20 World Cup, and they are still unbeaten in this Champions Trophy. The same team will play," Ganguly added.

Ganguly also expressed confidence in India’s chances in the Champions Trophy final, calling them the favorites to win the title.

"India is the favourite. The team is in good form. Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Rohit Sharma, and KL Rahul – everyone is in great shape. India's bowling lineup is also very strong," he stated.

If Rohit lifts the Champions Trophy, he will become only the third Indian captain—after Ganguly (2002) and MS Dhoni (2013)—to win the prestigious tournament, further solidifying his legacy as one of India’s greatest captains.

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