Rohit Sharma trains with Abhishek Nayar to prepare for crucial series

Rohit Sharma has made it clear he isn’t ready to walk away from ODI cricket just yet. Days after returning from a family holiday in the UK, the Indian ODI captain was spotted in a Mumbai gym training with former India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar. The session comes ahead of the high-profile ODI series against Australia in October, which will be India’s next 50-over assignment.

Speculation about Rohit’s future had intensified after he announced his retirement from Test cricket earlier this year during the IPL 2025 season. Many believed his decision might be the first step toward ending his ODI career, especially with the BCCI reportedly considering a leadership shift in favour of Shubman Gill. But the veteran opener’s latest move sends a strong message he is still committed to the format.

Long-time bond between Rohit Sharma and Abhishek Nayar

Rohit’s association with Nayar goes back more than a decade. The former cricketer has been a trusted mentor, fitness partner, and motivator for the India skipper during various phases of his career. After Rohit was left out of the 2011 ODI World Cup squad, it was Nayar who played a key role in helping him rebuild his confidence and form.

Even during the 2025 IPL season, when Rohit had a slow start, he turned to Nayar for guidance. That extra push helped him bounce back strongly in the latter half of the tournament, something he publicly acknowledged in a social media post. Their latest training session ahead of the Australia series is another reminder of how central Nayar’s support has been to Rohit’s career longevity.

Retirement rumours and the Australia challenge

The talk around Rohit’s possible ODI retirement gained momentum after a report suggested that both he and Virat Kohli might call it quits after the Australia tour. With the Bangladesh ODI series in August cancelled, the three-match Australia series from October 19 to 25 will be India’s only 50-over cricket in the coming months.

However, Rohit’s return to an intense training schedule tells a different story. The 38-year-old, who led India to victory in the 2025 Champions Trophy, seems determined to stay fit and competitive, with one eye on the 2027 ODI World Cup still over two years away. For him, this isn’t just about one series; it’s about extending his career in the format and mentoring the next generation of players.

BCCI’s balancing act for the ODI future

The Indian team management and selectors face an important decision. While there is a strong push for introducing more young players into the ODI setup following the Test team’s success with a younger squad, there’s also the need for experienced heads to guide the transition.

Some believe that if Rohit does step down from captaincy, he should be given a farewell series, with the Australia ODIs being the perfect stage. But the final call will depend on how the BCCI leadership views the balance between grooming youth and maintaining stability.

Rohit Sharma’s mindset moving forward

For now, Rohit appears unfazed by the speculation. His actions returning to training with one of his most trusted coaches, focusing on fitness, and preparing months in advance  suggest that he still sees himself as an integral part of India’s ODI plans. His presence will be vital not just for his batting at the top of the order but also for his leadership during a transitional phase for Indian cricket.

Fans, too, will be watching closely. If his form holds up and his fitness remains at its peak, Rohit could well be part of India’s plans through to the 2027 World Cup. The Australia series will be the first major indicator of his intent and performance in the post-Test retirement phase of his career. Also Read: R Ashwin is Shocking Exit: 5 Key Developments from the CSK Star’s Decision to Leave

Conclusion:

By resuming training early and working closely with Abhishek Nayar, Rohit Sharma has sent a clear message he’s not done with ODI cricket yet. The Australia series in October could be a defining chapter, either cementing his role for the years ahead or marking the start of a gradual transition.