Should Rohit Sharma retire after the Champions Trophy?

Dubai: Doubts lingered. Criticism mounted. And for a moment, it seemed like Rohit Sharma‘s time at the top was running out.

After stepping down for the final Test against Australia in Sydney — fuelling speculation about his future — the Indian captain has answered in the only way he knows: with runs. A century against England in the ODI series signalled his resurgence, but has it truly silenced the talk of retirement?

But the murmurs haven’t stopped. Even with his latest century, questions remain: Can Rohit sustain this form? Is this just a fleeting spark, or does he have enough left in the tank to lead India through another major tournament?

At 37, the white-ball format seems to suit him best, offering a stage where his natural stroke play and experience shine. With Shubman Gill settling in as his opening partner, the duo has been in formidable touch, piling on runs at an astonishing average.

Yet, with the Champions Trophy on the horizon, the debate rages on—will Rohit Sharma bow out on his own terms, or is the endgame approaching faster than expected? The reported rift in the dressing room between coach Gautam Gambhir and some team members has repeatedly left fans perplexed, especially ahead of such an important assignment in Dubai.

Former India batsman Sanjay Manjrekar remains sceptical about whether Rohit can sustain this resurgence.

“He wanted a big hundred, and he finally got it,” Manjrekar told ESPNcricinfo. “Whether he can hit a few more ... we will have to wait. I am not confident.”

While questions swirl, Rohit remains unfazed. The Indian team trained at the ICC Academy grounds in Dubai, and the captain looked as sharp as ever — whether in fielding drills, hitting the stumps, or his batting. The energy within the camp was high, with plenty of banter and intensity, signalling that the team is in the right mental space.

Rohit is a player who thrives on confidence. White-ball cricket gives him the best opportunity to do what he does best—stand and deliver. As skipper, he led India to a dominant 3-0 series win over England in the ODIs, a key preparatory contest for the Champions Trophy.

The 37-year-old has found a new rhythm in ODIs, especially with Shubman Gill taking on the opener’s role. The duo has opened together on 26 occasions, amassing 1,868 runs at an impressive average of 74.72.

The numbers speak for themselves — Rohit boasts an ODI average of 49.05. And once he gets going, he tends to score big. That ability has propelled him to 10,988 runs in 268 matches, with a highest score of 264.

Another veteran, Virat Kohli, has also faced a similar situation, with his position coming into question despite scoring a century in the first Test against Australia. The star batter, known for his ability to conjure magic, eased some of the pressure by scoring a workmanlike half-century—one that must have given him the much-needed confidence.

Shikhar Dhawan, who once formed a formidable opening partnership with Rohit, is pleased with the form of India’s senior batsmen.

“There are a lot of reasons to be optimistic for India. They have a very balanced side, especially with the bat — there is a nice blend of experience and youth. Shubman Gill, in particular, is so consistent, and he has a big role to play. I think he will have a great tournament,” Dhawan said.

“Rohit Sharma has found form, Virat Kohli is there; they are a top side and will take some stopping.

“India did very well in the last Champions Trophy but, sadly, ended up on the losing side in the final. But we played amazing cricket. There will be some amazing memories of that, and with this squad, they know what they can do,” he added.

Rohit has given everything to Indian cricket. He may have a couple more years left in him, but nothing is certain. With the T20 World Cup and Champions Trophy approaching, his next move remains a mystery.

If India triumphs, will he walk away on a high? Or will another title fuel his hunger for more?

For now, Rohit Sharma isn’t thinking about the finish line. He’s taking guard, ready to lead India once again — just as he has so many times before.