Indian cricket star Rohit Sharma recently prepared for his international return with a practice session at Mumbai`s iconic Shivaji Park. The 38-year-old was greeted by hundreds of enthusiastic fans, eager to cheer him on before India`s upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia, commencing October 19. As Sharma captivated the crowd with his powerful hitting, supporters in attendance made sure to vocalize their long-term aspiration: securing the 2027 World Cup trophy.
A video widely circulated on social media captured the impassioned chants from fans directed at Sharma. One supporter was heard exclaiming:
`2027 ka World Cup tumhare bina nahi jeet paayenge Rohit bhai!`
(We won`t be able to win the 2027 World Cup without you, Rohit brother!)
Another fan encouraged him during a powerful pull shot, shouting:
`Australia mein bhi aise hi maarna hai. Dekho dekho, saamne Starc khada hai,`
(You need to hit like this in Australia too. Look, look, Mitchell Starc is standing right in front of you!)
Australia holds a significant place in Sharma`s career trajectory. He famously led India as captain when they lost the 2023 World Cup final to the Australian side. However, he showcased his formidable batting prowess against Australia in the T20 World Cup 2024, scoring a blistering 92 runs off just 41 balls in a tournament India eventually won under his leadership.
Despite guiding India to the Champions Trophy 2025 title earlier in March, Sharma has since been relieved of his ODI captaincy, with Shubman Gill now taking over the reins. This shift has fueled speculation regarding Sharma`s long-term future in One Day Internationals, especially considering he will be 40 years old by the time the 2027 World Cup commences. Questions persist about his ability to sustain peak form and fitness until then.
Nonetheless, Sharma has demonstrated a strong commitment to his physical conditioning. Former India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar recently disclosed that Sharma has shed 10 kilograms. His current form remains undeniable; he holds the No. 2 spot in the ICC ODI men`s batting rankings, trailing only his opening partner, Shubman Gill.
