Rohit Sharma is set to enter the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy with a point to prove. While the Indian captain has seen major success in the last year—including leading India to a T20 World Cup victory—his Test credentials have come under scrutiny. The upcoming tournament may define the next phase of his career, as questions linger over his long-term place in the Indian setup.
A Year of Highs and Lows for Sharma
Sharma’s leadership in white-ball cricket has been largely unquestioned. Under his captaincy, India lifted the 2024 T20 World Cup, an achievement that solidified his reputation as a big-tournament performer. However, red-ball cricket has been less forgiving.
His Test form has wavered, leading to doubts about his place in the team. He even stepped aside for the final Test of India’s away series against Australia, a move that fueled speculation about his future in the format. While he has proven himself as a dominant force in ODIs, his performance in the Champions Trophy may determine how long he remains a key figure in Indian cricket.
ODI Dominance: Sharma’s Record Speaks for Itself
Despite questions surrounding his Test career, Sharma’s ODI credentials remain intact. He is the only player in history to score three double centuries in the format, a record that places him in elite company.
His numbers further back his greatness:
- One of six Indians to have surpassed 10,000 ODI runs
- 32 centuries, ranking third all-time in ODIs behind Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli
- A career batting average of 49.05, highlighting his consistency
Before the Champions Trophy, Sharma returned to the ODI scene with a mixed series against England. While he had two single-digit scores, his breathtaking 119 in the second match reminded everyone of his destructive potential. His ability to deliver under pressure will be crucial in the upcoming tournament.
Leading India in the 2023 ODI World Cup
Sharma’s role in the 2023 ODI World Cup was pivotal. He set the tone for India with aggressive starts, helping them remain unbeaten throughout the tournament—until the final.
His 597-run tally made him the second-highest scorer in the event. More importantly, his leadership style earned widespread praise. Even after India’s loss to Australia in the final, there was little criticism of the team’s approach. Sharma had instilled a fearless brand of cricket that many believed was overdue.
Champions Trophy Experience: A Proven Performer
Sharma has been a key player for India in past editions of the Champions Trophy. Across 10 matches, he has scored 481 runs at an average of 53.44 and a strike rate of 82.50.
His standout performance came in 2017, when he smashed an unbeaten 123 against Bangladesh in the semi-finals. His contributions in the 2013 edition were equally crucial, helping India lift the trophy. With such a track record, there’s no doubt that Sharma knows how to perform in this tournament.
A Major Milestone in Sight
As Sharma prepares for the Champions Trophy, another personal landmark is within reach. He currently sits at 10,988 ODI runs—just 12 short of becoming the 10th batter in history to reach 11,000.
Additionally, his power-hitting ability could rewrite another record. With 338 ODI sixes, he isn’t far behind Pakistan’s Shahid Afridi (351), the all-time leader in ODI six-hitting. A strong tournament could see Sharma claim that record as well.
Will This Be Sharma’s Final ICC Tournament?
At 38, Sharma is already taking steps toward a transition. He has retired from T20Is and voluntarily sat out of a crucial Test match in Australia. With the next ICC ODI event—the 2027 World Cup—three years away, there’s growing speculation that the selectors may start looking beyond him.
The Champions Trophy could be his final big-stage moment in Indian colors. If that’s the case, Sharma will want to bow out on a high, proving yet again why he remains one of the greatest ODI batsmen of his generation.
