Rohit Sharma, who missed a few IPL 2026 matches due to a hamstring injury, is currently featuring in the Indian versus Afghanistan ODI series. He was run out for run-a-ball 16 in the opening game in Dharamsala on Saturday (June 13).
While Rohit’s overall ODI numbers have been impressive after retiring from the other two formats, he has managed only 77 runs across four innings this year.
Despite the question mark over the veteran opener’s future, India’s spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule stressed that Rohit's experience and leadership qualities remain indispensable to the team, especially with Shubman Gill now captaining the ODI side.
"I think Rohit is definitely an experienced player. He's a champion cricketer. I think he is somebody who adds value to this team with his experience, not only batting-wise, but his leadership qualities also rub off on all the boys, with Shubman also. So I think him being on the side is definitely very, very important, and he's somebody who understands each game, who understands what is expected from him and from the team," Sairaj told reporters on the eve of the second ODI against Afghanistan in Lucknow.
Sairaj Bahutule further praised Rohit Sharma's unmatched dedication, noting that his game preparation is as intense as a newcomer's.
"I think he is just looking forward to every match and all the work he is putting in is like he has just started playing," the former India spinner added.
During the pre-match presser, Bahutule also commended KL Rahul for his phenomenal adaptability across all formats and his ability to deliver regardless of where he bats.
Following his century in the one-off Test against Afghanistan, Rahul carried his red-hot form into the ODI series by smashing an unbeaten 39 off just 19 balls in the rain-curtailed opening game.
"I think he is a fabulous player. I think he is somebody who adapts to conditions really quickly and the formats as he has proven in these two games," Bahutule said.
"I just feel that you send him at any number, he is somebody who will perform for you, understands the situation, understands what is needed for him at that particular moment, adapts to the conditions and delivers. So I think wherever he decides to bat or wherever he is given that opportunity, he will be an important member of the team," he remarked.
