As speculation grows as to what? Rohit Sharma Likely to play his last international match in Sunday’s third ODI against England at Lord’s, former India captain Kapil Dev has urged fans to celebrate the Indian skipper’s career instead of being sad.Speaking to ANI on the sidelines of an event, the 1983 World Cup-winning captain dismissed the idea of mourning Rohit’s possible retirement.“No, let’s stay happy. Why be sad? He gave us so much happiness over the years. Everyone has to go. Sunil Gavaskar is gone, Rahul is gone, Anil Kumble is gone, Sachin is gone. Everyone has to go,” Kapil said.Kapil believes that every cricketer’s career eventually comes to an end and Rohit’s achievements deserve to be celebrated.“So when he goes, we should celebrate his life. What a joy, how much entertainment he gave to the country, not only the country, but the whole world. We should be happy, why sad?” he said.The legendary all-rounder also wished Rohit a perfect farewell if the opener decides to retire.“Yes, he has to go one day. I hope if he goes, he gets a hundred and goes,” Kapil added.
Talk of retirement grew during the England series
Rohit, who made his ODI debut against Ireland in 2007, has retired from T20Is and Test cricket. Reports suggesting that the Lord’s ODI could be his last international appearance have gained traction with the ongoing series in England.The 39-year-old batsman struggled with the bat, scoring 11 and 26 in the first two ODIs. In all, Rohit has made 241 runs in eight ODI innings this year at an average of 30.12, with a top score of 79.India take on England in the series decider in the third ODI at Lord’s on Sunday, with Rohit hoping to silence speculation with a match-winning performance.