Rohit Sharma's Stellar Performance Raises Questions About His Future

Rohit Sharma's impressive 138 runs in the final ODI against England at Lord's has sparked discussions about his future with the Indian cricket team. Despite his remarkable performance, India fell short in the match, losing the series 2-1. The innings, marked by 17 fours and five sixes, was pivotal for Rohit, who faced scrutiny after previous low scores. Additionally, the bat he used was lent by his Mumbai teammate Shardul Thakur, adding a personal touch to his achievement. As the selectors deliberate on his future, Rohit's determination to remain a key player is evident.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 21, 2026, 11:17 IST

Rohit Sharma's Remarkable Innings at Lord's

Rohit Sharma's position in the Indian cricket team remains uncertain, but the experienced opener ensured that any decisions regarding his career would be made thoughtfully. During the final ODI against England at Lord's, the 39-year-old delivered an impressive performance, scoring 138 runs off 110 balls, keeping India's hopes alive in their chase of a daunting target of 388 runs. Despite his efforts, which included 17 boundaries and five sixes, India fell short, finishing at 360/7, resulting in a 27-run defeat and a series loss of 2-1.

Having scored only 11 and 26 in the previous matches, Rohit faced significant pressure heading into this crucial game. The match at Lord's was perceived as pivotal for his international career, especially since India won't play another ODI until September, leaving his future with the selectors uncertain. Rohit reached his century in just 84 balls, hitting a slog-swept boundary off Adil Rashid, marking his 34th ODI century. His celebration was subdued; he acknowledged the Indian dressing room and his family in the crowd while sharing a hug with Virat Kohli.

Shardul Thakur Shares Insight on Rohit's Bat

Shardul Thakur Reveals Story Behind Rohit's Bat

After the match, an interesting detail emerged regarding Rohit's innings: his Mumbai teammate Shardul Thakur had provided him with the bat used for his century. Thakur disclosed that Rohit had previously asked for a few bats after being impressed by the quality of the willow from SS Bats, which Thakur endorses. Ultimately, Rohit utilized one of those bats during his remarkable innings at Lord's.

Thakur expressed his happiness, stating, "I am signed with SS bats, and Jatin Sareen (the owner) has generously sent me some excellent pieces of willow. Rohit once requested a couple of bats because he admired them. We all cherish him, and he has given us countless joyful moments in cricket, so it was impossible to deny him the bat. I am thrilled that he scored his historic hundred at Lord's using one of my bats," he told a media outlet.

The bond between the two Mumbai cricketers added significance to the moment. Both Thakur and Rohit attended Swami Vivekanand International School, where they were coached by Dinesh Lad. They later played together for the Mumbai Indians and represented Mumbai in domestic cricket. During his time with the national team, Thakur was affectionately nicknamed 'Lord Thakur' by his teammates. However, it was his bat that contributed to Rohit Sharma's memorable innings at the iconic venue.

While Rohit's century sparked discussions about his career, it ultimately did not secure a victory for India in the match or the series. The selectors may still determine his future, but his score of 138 demonstrated his determination to retain his place in the team.