Kapil Dev’s heartfelt plea: ‘If it’s his farewell, let Rohit Sharma score a hundred at Lord’s’

As the third and final ODI between India and England looms at the historic Lord’s ground, an unexpected voice has joined the chatter – that of former World Cup‑winning captain Kapil Dev. Speaking to ANI, the legendary all‑rounder turned commentator said, “If he is going, he should get a hundred and go,” referring to veteran opener Rohit Sharma.

Dev’s comment came on the back of Rohit’s modest start to the series. In the first two matches, the Indian skipper managed just 37 runs, averaging under 19 with a strike‑rate barely crossing the 50‑mark. The numbers have fueled speculation that the 36‑year‑old might be hinting at retirement after the England tour.

But the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) quickly softened the narrative. Secretary Devajit Saikia told reporters that Rohit remains very much a part of India’s ODI plans and dismissed the notion that the Lord’s encounter would be his swan song. “He’s still in our future,” Saikia said, emphasizing that the team’s strategy still includes the left‑handed opener.

Kapil, ever the sentimentalist, reminded fans that greats eventually bow out – Sunil Gavaskar, Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble and Sachin Tendulkar have all taken their final steps. Yet he urged everyone to celebrate Rohit’s contributions rather than mourn a possible exit. “He has given us so much happiness. If he’s going, let’s make it memorable with a century,” he added.

Beyond the personal storyline, Dev also weighed in on the on‑field battle. He believes England holds a “slight edge” – perhaps a 51% chance – thanks to home conditions, but hinted that a united Indian side could flip the odds to 60% in their favour. The Men in Blue secured a six‑wicket win in Birmingham but fell by four wickets in Cardiff, leaving the series finely balanced.

Whether Rohit will answer the call and break his century drought at Lord’s remains to be seen. One thing is certain: a hundred from the veteran could turn a routine series‑decider into a fitting tribute to a career that has entertained millions.