Former India captain Rohit Sharma doesn’t need to prove his fitness or batting ability according to his childhood coach Dinesh Lad, who believes the experienced opener is vital to India’s hopes of winning the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Rohit has come under scrutiny after poor performance In his last ODI series against New Zealand, where he could only score 61 runs in three innings. However, Lad dismissed concerns over the 39-year-old’s form and fitness and insisted the criticism is unfair given Rohit’s stature and achievements in the format.

“Being a coach, I don’t think he needs to prove anything to anyone. He wants to win the ODI World Cup. I have spoken to him and he is very clear on what he wants in his career. I don’t think he needs to prove his fitness. Despite his age, he is still very fit,” Lad told PTI in a video on Friday.

The veteran coach said India would benefit greatly from Rohit’s experience in the next World Cup and backed him to overcome his recent struggles.

“Critics keep talking. That’s their job. If we want to reach the final, India need Rohit’s experience. There is no problem in terms of technique. Also, in 50-over cricket you need to be a bit methodical. Rohit has the technique which allows you to be methodical and then launch yourself,” Lad said.

He also pointed to Rohit’s IPL performance, where the opening batsman mixed aggression with smart strike rotation.

“Even in the IPL, he showed his technique. He was not only playing big shots but also taking singles and doubles. I don’t understand the critics’ point of view. My view is that he should be in the team.”

Lad also responded to former national selector Saba Karim’s recent comment that the next six months will be crucial for Rohit to cement his place in India’s plans for the 2027 World Cup.

He said, “Why are the next six months important only for Rohit? It is important for all the players. Everyone has to play well to keep their place in the team. I have 100 per cent guarantee that Rohit will definitely play the 50-over World Cup in 2027.”

“He will perform well during these six months and also in the subsequent months. If you give him a chance, he will perform well.”

After retiring from Test cricket and T20 International, Rohit is now completely focused on the ODI format. Lad believes the opener’s desire to lift the World Cup trophy is driving his preparations.

“He knows there has to be a reason if he has to play. The reason is to win the ODI World Cup. He wants to win it for India at any cost. I am sure he will retire only after this,” Lad said.

The coach revealed that despite being away from the two international formats, Rohit has been working hard behind the scenes.

“Rohit is not playing any other format, it does not mean that he has free time and is enjoying life. He is practicing every day and continuously working on his fitness. Don’t worry, he is preparing himself hard for the World Cup.”

Lad also reminded critics of Rohit’s remarkable ODI records, which include three double centuries and a record five hundreds in the 2019 World Cup.

“He has retired not from ODIs but from Tests and T20s. His ODI records are impeccable. I don’t think there is any pressure on him,” Lad said.

Giving final advice to his former disciple, Lad urged Rohit to rely on the formula that has brought him success in the past.

“Rohit should stay on the wicket and once he settles down, he becomes a dangerous player. I would like to remind him of how he played in the 2019 World Cup. He should play like that again.”

“He should play domestic 50-over matches. There will be criticism, but Rohit should ignore it. He should enjoy playing.”

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