Former India skipper Rohit Sharma doesn’t need to prove himself to anyone, according to his childhood coach Dinesh Lad. He believes the right-handed batter is important to India’s hopes of winning the 2027 ODI World Cup. Rohit is under pressure after failing to score in the last ODI series against New Zealand, where he amassed 61 runs in three matches. However, Lad dismissed the concerns over the batter’s form and fitness, saying the criticism is not needed given Rohit’s record in the fifty-over format.

“Being a coach, I don’t think he needs to prove himself. He wants to win the ODI World Cup. I have spoken to him, and he is sure of what he wants to achieve. I don’t think he needs to prove his fitness. Rohit is still fit despite his growing age,” Lad told PTI Videos on Friday.

He said India would benefit from Rohit’s experience and presence in the next World Cup.

“Critics can say what they want, as it is their job. India need Rohit if we want to make it to the final. He is technically sound and can go for his shots after settling down a bit,” he added.

He highlighted Rohit’s IPL performances, where the opener gave importance to aggression and strike rotation.

“He showed his class in the IPL. He was not only playing big shots but also relying on singles and doubles. I don’t want to discuss the viewpoint of the critics. My view is that he should be a part of the team.”

Lad also reacted to former national selector Saba Karim’s recent remarks that the next six months are crucial for Rohit to confirm his place in the squad.

“The next six months are crucial for all the players and not only Rohit. Everyone needs consistency to retain their place in the squad. Rohit will definitely play in the 50-over World Cup next year.

“He will perform well even after six months, but you will have to give him chances.”

Rohit only plays in the ODI format, having retired from T20Is and Test cricket. “He is playing to win the World Cup. He wants to win it at any cost, and he will only retire after that,” Lad revealed.

The coach mentioned that Rohit is working behind the scenes. “Rohit is practising every day. Retirement from two formats doesn’t mean he is enjoying his life. He is getting ready for the World Cup.”

Lad also reminded the doubters of Rohit’s record in the fifty-over format. “His record in ODIs is exceptional. He is not under pressure.”

Lad urged Rohit to trust the formula that brought him success in international cricket.

“Rohit should spend some time in the middle before going for his shots. He is a dangerous batter, and he should play the way he did in the 2019 World Cup. Rohit should compete in domestic cricket and ignore the critics.”