Rohit Sharma‘s lean patch with the bat has continued in India’s ODI series against England, with the veteran opener managing just 37 runs from two matches, intensifying concerns over his form ahead of the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.

The 39-year-old scored 11 off 21 balls in the first ODI at Edgbaston before following it up with a slow 26 off 47 deliveries in the second ODI at Sophia Gardens, Cardiff.

Rohit struggles for fluency

Across the two innings, Rohit has struck just two boundaries and one six, scoring at a strike rate of 54.41.

His innings were marked by prolonged periods of inactivity, with 14 dot balls from 21 deliveries in the first ODI and 28 dot balls from 47 balls in the second.

England’s pace attack, led by Jofra Archer, consistently troubled the former India captain with pace and movement, forcing several mistimed shots and edges.

Rohit’s dismissal in Cardiff summed up his difficult run, as he top-edged a sweep off Will Jacks, offering a simple catch to wicketkeeper Jos Buttler.

Form slump continues

The concerns extend beyond the England series.

In the preceding ODI series against Afghanistan, Rohit scored 143 runs in three matches, including a highest score of 79, averaging 47.66.

However, his IPL 2026 campaign was disrupted by injury, and he managed only 283 runs in nine matches, despite maintaining an aggressive strike rate.

Observers also noted signs of discomfort during India’s training sessions, where Rohit reportedly struggled for timing against sidearm specialists while preparing for the England series.

World Cup plans under focus

With Yashasvi Jaiswal waiting in the wings after consistent performances, Rohit’s prolonged dip in form has sparked discussions about India’s opening combination for the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa.

Although Rohit remains one of India’s leading ODI run-scorers since the previous World Cup, recent statistics show that Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli have outperformed him in terms of consistency.

By the time the next ODI World Cup begins, Rohit will be 40 years old, making his form, fitness and ability to counter high-quality pace bowling crucial factors in India’s campaign.

Despite the recent struggles, the experienced opener remains one of India’s most accomplished white-ball batters, and the team management will hope he rediscovers his touch before the global tournament