Rohit wants to win the cup because he wasn't a part of the 2011 World Cup-winning team: Childhood coach

In his pursuit of attaining glory in the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023 on November 19, Rohit Sharma is leaving no stone unturned, driven by the desire to secure a coveted win for India. As the captain prepares for the crucial match, his childhood coach, Dinesh Lad, suggests that this might be Rohit's final appearance on the grand 50-over stage.

Amid ongoing discussions about the future of ODI cricket, Rohit Sharma remains unwavering in his belief that the 50-over World Cup still holds a special place in world cricket. Reflecting on the past, Rohit, who missed the 2011 edition, often expresses his lingering disappointment at not being part of the victorious squad led by MS Dhoni.

As the 36-year-old captain steers India towards potential glory, his childhood coach, Dinesh Lad, believes this might be Rohit's farewell to the World Cup stage. 

"Chances really look as if this could be his last World Cup. The way he is progressing... because he is 36 now and the next World Cup is in 4 years and generally at the age of 40 cricketers don't play. But I feel that this could be his last World Cup," Lad, Rohit's childhood coach, told ANI.

Rohit's determination to secure the cup for India stems from his absence in the 2011 triumph. Lad expresses pride, saying, "He also wants to win the cup for the country. Because he was not a part of the 2011 World Cup-winning team India. It will be really proud moment for me to see the World Cup in his [Rohit] hands. He has been a positive cricketer since the very beginning and it is his plus points," Lad while expressing his pride continued.

The way he is batting, it seems like he will score a century in every match: Dinesh Lad

Rohit Sharma's altered approach, marked by an aggressive stance from the outset, has yielded dividends for the team. With a strike rate of 121, the highest for a batter with over 400 runs in the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023, Rohit has been a force to be reckoned with. As India braces for the semi-final against New Zealand, the anticipation is high, and Lad voices his wish for Rohit to achieve yet another milestone.

"The way he is batting, it seems like he will score a century in every match. He is playing for the team. But he knows that if he gives a solid start then it will be easier for the coming batters. I really want Rohit to score a century on this ground. But even if he gives a good start for the country, I will feel very good," Lad concluded.

Throughout the tournament, Rohit Sharma has been a powerhouse at the top, setting the stage with aggressive starts and disrupting the opposition's bowling strategies in the initial 10 overs. With an impressive 503 runs and a strike rate of 121, Rohit's contribution has been pivotal, highlighted by a century and three half-centuries.

Also Check: List of Rohit Sharma international & IPL centuries