Rohit Sharma dismisses retirement rumors after India's Champions Trophy triumph

Following India's emphatic victory in the ICC Champions Trophy final against New Zealand in Dubai, captain Rohit Sharma put to rest any speculation about his retirement from One Day Internationals (ODIs). The veteran opener, who played a crucial role in India’s triumph with a blazing 76-run knock, confirmed that he remains committed to the 50-over format.

"I'm not retiring from this format... make sure no rumours are spread," Rohit stated, addressing the growing speculation about his future in ODIs.

India’s title win marked the end of a decade-long wait for another Champions Trophy, with their last victory in the tournament coming in 2013. The Men in Blue also secured the 2024 T20 World Cup title, just months after a heartbreaking loss to Australia in the ODI World Cup final in Ahmedabad in November 2023.

Speaking about India’s strategic approach during the 50-over tournament, Rohit emphasised the pivotal role of spinners in their success.

“When I learned about playing the tournament in Dubai, we selected four spinners because Dubai’s wicket had been getting enough cricket for some time, and where cricket was there, spinners could become match-winners.

The team’s spinners were chosen based on this, and they delivered remarkable performances,” he explained.

Reflecting on the challenging moments during the finals, Rohit admitted the early loss of three wickets created pressure.

“It was a tough phase, and a big partnership was needed to stabilise the game,” he said, commending the team’s ability to overcome hurdles.

Rohit Sharma also addressed the heartbreak of India’s loss in the 2023 World Cup final against Australia in Ahmedabad.

“The World Cup 2023 final on home ground is a regret. However, the team’s performances over the last three years have been remarkable, winning all matches in the T20 World Cup, securing the trophy, and now claiming victory in the Champions Trophy,” he said.

India added to their trophies in 2002 and 2013 to go past Australia, who have two titles.

The world number's one ODI team, India finished unbeaten in the eight-nation tournament played in Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates.

The Men in Blue played all their matches in Dubai after they refused to tour hosts Pakistan due to political tensions and have been unbeaten at the venue in four matches.