Former India player turned commentator Cheteshwar Pujara has applauded Rohit Sharma for scoring a much-needed half-century in the third ODI against Afghanistan. He added that the opener might be relieved to be back among big runs, and he would go to England slightly relaxed as well. Rohit Sharma scored 79 runs off 69 balls as India beat Afghanistan by nine wickets with 21.2 overs in hand.

During a discussion on JioHotstar, Pujara said, “No matter how big a player you are, you need runs, and the way Rohit batted today (Saturday), the rhythm was visible. It was necessary for him to score runs. The team management is backing him, but as a player, when you don’t score runs, the pressure on you mounts a little. So he would have felt a little relieved that he is back in form. It will be slightly easier for him when he plays his next innings in England, and that wicket will also suit him. He also performed well in fielding. He took three catches. So, overall, it was a good day for him. He can go to England slightly relaxed.”

However, Cheteshwar Pujara said that fitness and consistency would be the only questions regarding Rohit Sharma’s place in
India’s 2027 ODI World Cup squad as well.

“The experience will definitely be useful, especially since the World Cup will happen in South Africa, and you will need experienced players there. The only question is about the fitness. Can you maintain your consistency when you play only one format? That will be the only question. He got out to Rashid Khan in the last match. The good thing in this match was how he rectified it. He wasn’t playing him as a leg-spinner but as an off-spinner. He targeted the leg side on most shots and tried to play with the spin because Rashid’s strength is not leg spin but the googlies,” Cheteshwar Pujara concluded.