Former India selector Kris Srikkanth has opened up about one of the most debated decisions in Indian cricket history, admitting he still feels remorse for excluding Rohit Sharma from the squad that went on to win the ICC Cricket World Cup 2011.
India’s iconic triumph under MS Dhoni ended a 28-year wait for World Cup glory and marked a historic moment as the team became the first to win the tournament on home soil. While the victory brought nationwide celebrations, it also involved some difficult selection choices, one of which was Rohit Sharma’s omission.
Reflecting on that decision, Kris Srikkanth revealed that the call was not a reflection of Rohit’s ability but rather a strategic move based on team balance. The selectors prioritized players who could contribute in multiple roles, following a blueprint similar to India’s successful campaign in the 1983 Cricket World Cup.
He admitted that he personally apologized to Rohit Sharma for the decision, acknowledging that it remains a moment he still thinks about. At the time, the team management aimed to strengthen depth by including players capable of both batting and bowling, which ultimately shaped the final squad.
That strategy proved effective during the tournament, with Yuvraj Singh delivering an exceptional all-round performance. He scored 362 runs and claimed 15 wickets, earning the Player of the Tournament award and playing a crucial role in India’s success.
Several players in the squad, including Virender Sehwag, Sachin Tendulkar, and Suresh Raina, were also capable of contributing with the ball, reinforcing the importance of versatility in the team setup.
Despite missing out in 2011, Rohit Sharma went on to establish himself as one of India’s most successful white-ball batters. His career flourished in the years that followed, making him a key figure in India’s batting lineup across formats.
Looking back, Srikkanth emphasized that while the decision was made in the best interest of team composition, it was unfortunate that a talented player like Rohit Sharma had to miss out on such a historic occasion.