Rohit Sharma is fit as a fiddle. There were some concerns about the opener’s physical state after dealing with a hamstring injury during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. India’s assistant coach Morne Morkel has assured everyone that the 38-year-old has no injury concerns for the India vs Afghanistan 1st ODI.
The former India captain had practice on June 10 in Mohali. When he arrived in Dharamshala, some noticed that he was wearing a specialised thigh pad. It was assumed that Rohit was still managing the hamstring injury, although the Centre of Excellence had cleared him.
No injury issues for Rohit Sharma
However, that’s not the case. Morkel wasn’t even aware that Rohit was using a different thigh pad and assured everyone that he was ready to play after a short 2-week break. During the practice sessions, he has faced Gurnoor Brar, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna and Prince Yadav and showed no signs of any physical issues.
“I don’t think there’s any issue. He’s passed all his fitness tests. He’s cleared and ready to go. Obviously, the balls are coming at high speeds, and you want to protect yourself (on wearing different-looking thigh pads), even if there’s a slight niggle. But I can assure you there’s nothing wrong. Rohit is moving well and training well. So excited to see him go,” Morkel told reporters in Dharamshala on the eve of the first ODI.
Experience invaluable to Team India
In Virat Kohli‘s absence, Rohit’s presence becomes even more important. Shubman Gill’s still learning as a captain. We’ve seen him lean on the senior batters against Australia and New Zealand. With Kohli unavailable, Rohit will need to shoulder some extra responsibility.
The experience Rohit brings isn’t just for Gill but every member in the dressing room. He’s been through it all and can step up on the field. He knows when to up the intensity and gather the troops. Similarly, Rohit can pump the brakes if the team or a certain player is under pressure. Morkel and the team management are aware and value his 19 years of experience as an international cricketer.
“Always nice to have his experience back as well. Just the calmness that he brings to the dressing room is always a positive to have. He’s training well, he’s moving well. So, I know that he’s also excited to go,” Morkel added.
