'Rohit Sharma should take minimal breaks and keep playing'-Aakash Chopra

Rohit Sharma (Source: Twitter)

The former cricketer-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra has questioned Rohit Sharma's absence from the ongoing ODI series against New Zealand. He thinks India should field their best XI to prepare well for the 2023 World Cup, with Rohit as the captain. 

Rohit, who is enduring a slump in form, opted to be rested for the New Zealand tour. The 35-year-old is facing criticism owing to his failed captaincy stints in the Asia Cup and T20 World Cup. Furthermore, he could only garner 116 runs in six innings, failing to provide a good start in World Cup. 

Former cricketers and pundits think the senior players resting ahead of the big tournaments have not helped the Men in Blue. They think the players should lessen their IPL appearances for workload management and properly focus on international cricket. 

In this regard, Chopra thinks the likes of Dasun Shanaka, Jos Buttler and Pat Cummins are leading their respective sides, while Rohit and head coach Rahul Dravid are absent against New Zealand. 

The 45-year-old reckoned that it's important to have stability in the side, during the preparation of a big tournament. He pointed out Shikhar Dhawan being only the temporary captain in New Zealand will not help the team's cause. 

Here's what Chopra said

"Now, the time for experimenting is gone. Rohit Sharma, I believe he is our captain for the 2023 ODI World Cup, should take minimal breaks and keep playing. If you need a break, take it during the IPL. If Team India is serious about winning the World Cup then they should start fielding their best XI as much as possible."

The likes of Rohit, Virat Kohli and KL Rahul will return to don Blues against Bangladesh next month. Also, Dravid and his team will also mark their presence in the series, which will restart preparation for 2023 WC. 

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