AB de Villiers comes up with a bold statement on Rohit Sharma
Former South Africa captain AB de Villiers—famously known as 'Mr. 360'—shared his views on Rohit Sharma following the conclusion of the India vs. England ODI series. He believes that while Rohit Sharma may not always be the most consistent batter, he is undoubtedly the best in major tournaments.
"Rohit has never been the most consistent player for a long period of time, a little bit up and down, but when the big moments present themselves, he needs to be on your side. I would just manage him really well and make sure he stays match-fit more than anything else and get him ready for that World Cup," he said.
AB de Villiers emphasised that for big events like the World Cup, Team India requires both Rohit and Virat for their experience and ability to handle pressure.
"The two of them (Rohit and Virat)—the proof is in the pudding, winning ICC trophies, being there in that World Cup final against Australia—there are a lot of reasons to be confident. You need that experience in big tournaments. You just can't buy that at a supermarket; what Virat and Rohit bring to the party. In pressure moments, it changes everything. There's a whole different pressure playing in World Cups and big tournaments,” he added.
He further added that the team becomes a vastly superior side when Rohit and Virat are in the lineup; therefore, both these experienced batters should be considered for the 2027 World Cup.
"India never really got going, but you could see the difference Virat and Rohit make in the team and the kind of belief they bring back into the side. About Rohit, you can just clearly see the confidence and impact that he has with the players around him, scoring a magnificent hundred in the final game. A lot of the media people are getting on his case. But he is still in decent form, especially in big matches. He leaves the best for the big games. And that's why I would have absolutely no doubt in making him part of my 2027 World Cup plans," he said.
In the recently concluded IND vs ENG ODI series, Rohit Sharma scored 175 runs in 3 innings. In the first two matches, Rohit failed, and his retirement rumours were starting. However, in the last ODI at Lord’s, he scored 138 runs in 110 balls, including 17 fours and 5 sixes. On the other hand, Virat Kohli scored 144 runs in 3 matches, including 2 half-centuries. Rohit and Virat will next be seen in action during the ODI series against the West Indies in September; however, if the India vs. Bangladesh ODI series is confirmed, the two could also travel for the Bangladesh tour.
