'I have my doubts' on Rohit Sharma's Form, Expert Predicts Indian Captain Won't Be Back at His Best Despite Century in Cuttack

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Rohit Sharma's commanding century against England in Cuttack was a much-needed response to the lingering questions about his form. The Indian skipper's 119 off 90 deliveries reminded fans of his prowess, but not everyone is convinced that this innings signals a return to his best.

Former cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has voiced his concerns about Rohit's ability to maintain consistency, drawing comparisons to his dominant 2019 World Cup campaign.

Speaking on ESPNcricinfo, Manjrekar acknowledged the brilliance of Rohit's knock but highlighted the physical toll it took on him. "You could see it took a lot out of him, that inning. Fifty-over cricket can be physically very demanding for bowlers, fielders, and batters. Virat Kohli knows how physically draining it can be, and that is why his fitness level has allowed him to still get those hundreds by running the ones and twos," Manjrekar explained.

Rohit's latest century came through a mix of calculated aggression and patience, unlike his approach during the 2019 ODI World Cup, where he was relentless from the start. Back then, he amassed 648 runs in nine matches, smashing five centuries at an average of 81.00. His ability to dominate bowlers without excessive running was key to his success.

Manjrekar, however, doubts whether Rohit can replicate that level of performance regularly. "Rohit Sharma had a different template where he didn't have to run too much. It was amazing how he got his second double hundred. But at this stage of his career, when you watched him go through the whole process and get that big hundred, he wanted it.

Whether he can do it day in and day out like he did in 2019, we will have to wait and see. I have my doubts. But both versions of Rohit Sharma-2019 and 2025-are excellent for Indian cricket," he added.

Beyond its significance for India, Manjrekar believes this knock had a personal layer for Rohit. "He wasn't as attacking or looking to give India a flyer as he did in the World Cup. But still, when he decides to pace his innings, it is incredible how easily he does it.

He was very selective in the way he played his shots. I have a feeling maybe in the next match, he will play again the way he thought was the best for the team, but this one was more for himself. Obviously, he wanted the team to win, but this is the one he will say is for me," Manjrekar stated.