Rohit Sharma responds to ODI struggles with Gambhir’s advice ahead of England clash

Rohit Sharma insists he’s still targeting the ICC ODI World Cup 2027 after India’s 1-0 lead over England in the three-match series.

What happened in the first ODI?

India beat England by six wickets at Edgbaston on 14 July, chasing 259 with ease. Rohit Sharma, though, managed just 11 off 21 balls before falling to Sam Curran in the eighth over. The right-hander has now gone cheaply in three of his last seven ODI innings in 2026.

Why Rohit Sharma’s form matters now

Across seven ODIs this year, Rohit has 215 runs at 30.71 with only one fifty. His January returns against New Zealand read 26, 24 and 11. A June outing versus Afghanistan brought 16, 48 and 79, a partial uptick. Still, the numbers lag his usual pace and fuel questions over his readiness for South Africa 2027.

What Gautam Gambhir told Rohit Sharma

Gautam Gambhir, India’s head coach, has urged Rohit to “express freely” and trust his natural game. A source close to the camp told SportsTak: “Rohit has done a lot for the team. The coach wants him to play the way he has throughout his career.” The message is simple: focus on the present, not the future.

When is the next ODI?

The second ODI starts at Sophia Gardens, Cardiff on 16 July. India aim to seal the series while England fight to stay alive. Rohit will look to erase his Edgbaston disappointment and rediscover his touch.