The atmosphere in the Indian dressing room must be difficult to understand right now. Pictures from London show manager Gautam Gambhir Share laughter with others Rohit Sharma On the Lord’s balcony on the eve of Sunday’s third match against England. However, they couldn’t hide the immense pressure the team’s oldest player had to endure heading into the series decider. This game means far more than just another bilateral series. The results may influence the team’s composition and planning for the next 15 months.The team management and selection committee have been ruthless in their decision-making over the past year, prioritizing performance over the status and reputation of the players. However, there is still uncertainty over how Rohit will fit into India’s plans for the ODI World Cup in South Africa.Later on Friday, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said the 39-year-old “will continue to represent India as long as it is within the plans”. However, it is clear that the selectors and management want to develop Yashasvi Jaiswal as an alternative opener. Another incredible performance on Sunday could dampen Rohit’s hopes of a fourth World Cup.After the England series, India’s next ODI is against West Indies in Thiruvananthapuram on September 27. Rohit looked visibly uncomfortable against England’s bounce and movement. Since staying away from the other two formats, he usually only finds form late in the series, even at home.The official line from Indian cricket remains that there are few concerns over Rohit’s form. “It’s hard work with the new ball up front. We’ve seen that throughout the series. The ball is moving. So it’s not easy to bat up front. No doubt Rohit will sort it out,” India fast bowling coach Moeen Morkel said at the pre-match press conference on Saturday.
