Rohit Sharma has won two editions of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup—first as a squad member in 2007 and later as captain in 2024. However, his international honours might also have included the ICC Cricket World Cup 2011, had he been selected for India’s squad in that tournament, which was held on home soil. At the time, the selectors chose not to include him.
More than a decade later, one of the selectors involved in that decision has publicly expressed regret. Krishnamachari Srikkanth, who chaired the selection committee in 2011, stated in an interview that he still feels sorry about leaving Rohit out of the squad. He also confirmed that he personally apologised to the player the previous year.
Srikkanth explained that the decision was not based on Rohit Sharma’s form or ability. Instead, it was driven by the team management’s emphasis on balance. He said: “I still feel bad for him. Last year, I told Rohit, ‘I am sorry, I am sorry.’ It was not intentional; we wanted to pick a few half all-rounders. Our thinking was along the lines of the 1983 World Cup.”
India’s preference for players who could contribute with both bat and ball proved effective during the tournament. Yuvraj Singh delivered an outstanding all-round performance, scoring 362 runs and taking 15 wickets, earning the Player of the Tournament award. Other players, including Suresh Raina and Yusuf Pathan, also contributed in multiple roles. Additionally, part-time bowling contributions came from Virender Sehwag and Sachin Tendulkar in certain matches.
Reflecting on the selection strategy, Srikkanth noted that the emphasis on multi-skilled players ultimately worked in India’s favour. However, he acknowledged that this approach resulted in Rohit Sharma missing out, despite being good enough to be part of the squad. He described the omission as unfortunate, reiterating that Rohit had the capability to play in that World Cup but did not receive the opportunity.
A summary of key all-round contributions from India’s 2011 World Cup campaign is presented below:
| Player | Runs Scored | Wickets Taken | Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yuvraj Singh | 362 | 15 | All-rounder |
| Suresh Raina | Not specified | Part-time | All-rounder |
| Yusuf Pathan | Not specified | Part-time | All-rounder |
Following his exclusion from the 2011 squad, Rohit Sharma went on to establish himself as one of India’s leading white-ball batters. After Sachin Tendulkar’s retirement, he became a regular opening batter in One Day Internationals and achieved a unique record by scoring three double centuries in the format, a feat unmatched by any other player.
Under Rohit’s captaincy, India reached the final of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, although they were defeated by Australia and did not secure the title. Having since retired from Test and T20 International cricket, he continues to play One Day Internationals. If he participates in the next 50-over World Cup, his objective will be to secure the title that eluded him earlier in his career.