Ravichandran Ashwin expresses sympathy for Rohit Sharma, who is currently experiencing a significant decline in form. However, he also acknowledges the rationale behind questioning the extended period of struggle faced by the Indian captain. Prior to the ODI series, Rohit exhibited frustration when a journalist inquired about his comfort level upon returning to white-ball cricket following a series of disappointing performances in Test matches.

"What kind of question is that?" an exasperated Rohit responded, emphasizing that the formats differ. "This is a different format, at a different time. As cricketers, we understand that there will be fluctuations in performance. I have encountered this numerous times throughout my career. This is not unfamiliar territory for me. We recognize that each day is a new opportunity, and every series presents its own challenges. I am eager to embrace this challenge and not dwell on the past. Clearly, you do not, so I see no reason to reflect on previous performances."

This was not the sole instance of Rohit displaying irritation during the press conference on Wednesday. Towards the conclusion, another journalist questioned the validity of reports suggesting that the BCCI sought clarification regarding his future following the Champions Trophy.

"How is it pertinent for me to discuss my future plans in this context, with three ODIs and a Champions Trophy approaching?" Rohit replied. "These reports have circulated for several years, but I am not here to address them. My concentration is on the upcoming matches, and we will assess the situation afterwards."

'I feel for Rohit but people will ask questions: Ashwin

Ashwin remarked that inquiries from the public are inevitable. The only effective means to mitigate such inquiries is through exemplary performance.

"This situation is quite challenging. From Rohit's perspective, it is understandably frustrating. He aims to focus on the series, believing that he has performed admirably in this format and wishes to maintain that momentum. He enters the tournament with considerable confidence, bolstered by his recent one-day performances. However, questions will persist. Observers will undoubtedly raise them. It is a paradoxical situation; these questions cannot be entirely avoided. When will they cease? Only when he delivers strong performances," Ashwin stated on his YouTube channel.

In the first ODI held in Nagpur, Rohit was dismissed for just 2 runs off 7 balls, although India secured victory by four wickets. The Indian captain has accumulated only 166 runs over 16 innings across all formats. Ashwin expressed his hopes for Rohit to achieve a century in the remaining matches of the series.

"As a fellow cricketer, I empathize with Rohit's situation. It is indeed a difficult phase. I sincerely hope he excels and scores a century in this series," he concluded.

The second ODI is scheduled to take place in Cuttack on Sunday.

Read Also: Ricky Ponting Baffled by Shreyas Iyer's Treatment: "As Good as Anyone," Says Former Aussie Captain

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!