Rohit Sharma gets backing from India’s batting coach amid slump with the bat

India’s batting coach has thrown his full support behind Rohit Sharma after the Indian captain’s recent dip in form with the bat.

What happened?

On 17 July 2026, India’s batting coach publicly backed Rohit Sharma amid a run of low scores in the ongoing series. The coach’s endorsement came during a team meeting, stressing Sharma’s long-term value to the side despite his current struggles.

Sharma, who led India in the last two white-ball series, has managed just 42 runs in his last five innings. The dip has raised questions about his place in the XI, especially with the selectors watching closely ahead of the next cycle.

Why it matters for Rohit Sharma

The coach’s backing gives Sharma breathing room to work on his game without immediate pressure to perform. It also signals the team’s faith in his leadership, even as his personal form dips.

Sharma’s recent returns sit below his usual strike rates and averages. In the last T20I against Australia, he managed 12 off 14 before being bowled. His last ODI score was 28 off 34 against England in June.

What comes next?

Sharma is expected to retain his spot in the XI for the next series, with the coach’s words likely to ease any selection doubts. The team management will monitor his progress in the nets and in the upcoming domestic fixtures.

India’s next assignment starts on 25 July 2026, when they face West Indies in the first of three ODIs. Sharma’s starts there could define whether his slump stretches into another series.

What the coach said

The batting coach told reporters that Sharma’s game plan remains sound. He added that small tweaks in stance or trigger movements could restore Sharma’s timing and power.

‘Rohit’s cricket brain is still world-class,’ the coach said. ‘We’re working on fine-tuning his trigger so he gets back to his fluent, attacking game.’

The coach also praised Sharma’s role in shaping young batters like Tilak Varma and Yashasvi Jaiswal, calling it a ‘huge plus’ for the team’s future.