Kapil Dev and Rohit Sharma (Photos via PTI and ANI)
With speculation mounting over whether Rohit Sharma could play his final international match in Sunday’s third ODI against England at Lord’s, former India captain Kapil Dev has urged fans to celebrate the Indian skipper’s career instead of feeling sad.Speaking to ANI on the sidelines of an event, the 1983 World Cup-winning captain dismissed the idea of mourning Rohit’s possible retirement.
“No, let us stay happy. Why be sad? He has given us so much happiness over the years. Everyone has to go. Sunil Gavaskar has gone, Rahul has gone, Anil Kumble has gone, Sachin has gone. Everyone has to go,” Kapil said.Kapil believes that every cricketer’s career eventually comes to an end and Rohit’s achievements are worth celebrating.“So when he is gone, we should celebrate his life. What happiness, how much entertainment he gave the country, not only the country, but also all over the world. We should be happy, why be sad?” He said.The legendary all-rounder also wished Rohit the perfect farewell if the opener decides to retire.“Yes, he has to go one day. I hope if he does go, he gets a hundred and leaves,” Kapil added.
Talk of retirement grows during the England series
Rohit, who made his ODI debut against Ireland in 2007, has already retired from T20Is and Test cricket.
Reports that Lord’s ODI appearance could be his last international appearance have gained momentum during the ongoing England series.The 39-year-old struggled with the bat, scoring 11 and 26 in the first two ODIs. Overall, Rohit has managed 241 runs in eight ODIs this year at an average of 30.12, with a highest score of 79.India take on England in the series-deciding third ODI at Lord’s on Sunday, with Rohit hoping to silence speculation with a match-winning performance.