In a recent press conference, Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma addressed questions surrounding the retirement of veteran players, particularly in light of Ravichandran Ashwin’s announcement to retire from international cricket.
During the interaction, Rohit humorously reminded journalists that both Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara have not officially retired and could still make a return to the national team.
Context of the Discussion
The press conference took place following a match where Ashwin’s retirement was a significant topic.
As journalists probed into the status of other senior players, Rohit acknowledged the contributions of Ashwin while expressing his sentiments about missing him on the field.
The conversation then shifted to Rahane and Pujara, two stalwarts of Indian cricket who have been out of the Test setup for some time.
Rohit’s Lighthearted Response
As the discussion progressed, Rohit Sharma, known for his candidness and humor, suddenly realized that Rahane and Pujara had not formally announced their retirements.
In a light-hearted moment, he exclaimed, “Marwaoge Kya?” (Will you kill me or what?), indicating his surprise at the suggestion that these experienced players had stepped away from the game.
He emphasized that the door remains open for both Rahane and Pujara to return to the national side whenever needed.
Rohit mentioned that he frequently meets with Rahane, who is also from Mumbai, highlighting their camaraderie.
He noted that while Pujara tends to keep a lower profile in Rajkot, they still maintain communication. This acknowledgment serves to reassure fans and followers of Indian cricket that these seasoned players are still in contention for future selections.
Implications for Team Selection
Rohit’s comments underline a broader perspective regarding team selection as India prepares for upcoming challenges.
The captain’s assurance that both Rahane and Pujara can still contribute to the team reflects a willingness to consider experienced players who have proven their mettle in international cricket.
This approach could be particularly beneficial as India navigates through various series and tournaments in the future.
