Ameesha Patel shocked at treatment in 'cruel cricketing era' amid reports of Rohit Sharma's ODI exit

Bollywood actress Ameesha Patel has expressed her frustration at the manner in which veteran cricketers are being managed in the current cricketing ecosystem. On social media, Patel criticised what she termed a "cruel cricketing era" where experienced superstars like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli face uncertain futures despite their substantial contributions to Indian cricket.

Patel's statement comes amid reports that the selection committee under Ajit Agarkar has decided to move past Rohit Sharma in the ODI format. The decision was conveyed to the opener and head coach Gautam Gambhir in a meeting, with the selectors making it clear their future plans do not include him following the England series. Sources indicate Sunday's match at Lord's could be Rohit's final ODI appearance after nearly two decades representing India.

"SIMPLY shocked at the way senior super stars like Virat Kohli and Rohit sharma are treated in this cricketing era or should I say CRUEL CRICKETING ERA," Patel posted, describing the development as deeply regrettable.

A tweet not related to Bollywood.. been a while I have been noticing this so felt like tweeting today . SIMPLY shocked at the way senior super stars like Virat Kohli and Rohit sharma are treated in this cricketing era or should I say CRUEL CRICKETING ERA .. it’s a SHAME ..

The selectors have cited concerns over Rohit Sharma's batting performance in recent games. The 39-year-old managed just 11 runs in the first ODI at Edgbaston before scoring 26 off 47 balls in the second match at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff on Thursday.

The selection panel is eager to provide extended opportunities at the top of the order to younger talent such as Yashasvi Jaiswal, who has already demonstrated his capabilities across multiple formats and remains eager for a sustained run in 50-over cricket. Rohit has already retired from T20Is, shortly after leading India to the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup title. His continued presence in ODIs was motivated by a desire to feature in the 2027 ODI World Cup.

India will face England at Lord's on Saturday, July 19, with the series level at 1-1. The focus, however, remains on what decision Rohit will announce regarding his international career once this tour concludes on Sunday.