India, July 22 -- Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin believes there was more to the rumours, triggered by a media report, claiming Rohit Sharma was no longer in India's plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup. And despite the BCCI's attempts to shut down the speculation, Ashwin insisted there was "fire" behind the smoke, before Rohit reaffirmed his place with a commanding 138 in the third ODI against England at Lord's.

The speculation began after a report claimed the third ODI against England could potentially be Rohit's final appearance in international cricket. Having already retired from T20Is in June 2024 and Tests in May last year, Rohit's sole focus was believed to be ending his international career after the 2027 ODI World Cup. How...