Last Updated: June 14, 2026 05:34 PM
A significant statement regarding Indian captain Rohit Sharma has emerged.
Former England spinner Graeme Swann believes that when a player reaches the latter stage of their career, people naturally begin looking for their successor.
Although the ongoing ODI series between India and Afghanistan has not yet concluded, fans and cricket experts are already focusing on the upcoming England tour in July and preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Growing pressure on Rohit Sharma
Speaking to PTI, Graeme Swann said, “Absolutely. I think it’s inevitable with any player when you come to the latter stage of your career the second half of your career, if you like that people naturally start looking for your successor, no matter how well you do.”
He added, “And even if you’re at the top of your game, they’re still looking, wondering who will be the next Virat or the next Rohit once they leave. That’s very natural.”
Swann believes that after just one or two poor innings, public attention immediately shifts to the next potential player.
He noted that the emergence of young talents like Vaibhav Suryavanshi has increased the responsibility on the team’s senior batters.
Regarding Rohit Sharma, Swann said, “So, I think these are crucial six weeks for Rohit. But as I said, he looks in great touch in the IPL, and let’s face it he remains one of the best players around.”
He further remarked, “If I were an English bowler, I wouldn’t want to bowl against a Rohit Sharma who is desperate to prove a point and retain his spot.”
Impressed by Vaibhav Suryavanshi
The former England cricketer clarified that the England series should not be viewed as a “final test” for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
According to him, both players are experienced and know exactly how to prepare themselves ahead of major tournaments.
Swann also heaped praise on 15-year-old batter Vaibhav Suryavanshi. He said, “Yes, he’s a special talent. Like I said earlier, I wouldn’t want to bowl to him.”
Swann added, “He is world-class, and I’m glad I’m not playing anymore.”
Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who delivered a brilliant performance in IPL 2026, has earned a spot in the Indian T20 squad for the tours of Ireland and England.
Meanwhile, Virat Kohli has also demonstrated his excellent form by scoring 675 runs in 16 matches during IPL 2026.
Consequently, all eyes will be on both the senior and young players of the Indian team in the coming weeks.
