Indian cricket legends Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are still active in One Day Internationals (ODIs), but their future in the format—especially for the 2027 ODI World Cup—is now under serious discussion. Former Indian captain and cricket icon Sunil Gavaskar has shared a frank opinion, stating that he doesn’t believe the two senior players will be part of India’s World Cup squad in 2027.
This opinion comes even though both Kohli and Rohit have shown strong commitment to ODIs, especially after stepping away from other formats. They recently shocked fans by retiring from Test cricket even before the highly anticipated England series began, a move that suggested their international careers might be nearing the end.
2027 World Cup: Dream or Reality?
Both stars have already retired from T20 Internationals, and ODIs remain the only international format where fans can still see them represent India. While Virat Kohli has publicly said he wants to play in the 2027 World Cup, and Rohit Sharma has always shown great passion for the 50-over format, Gavaskar believes it’s highly unlikely.
In a conversation with Sports Today on May 12, Gavaskar said the final decision about their place in the 2027 squad will lie with the selection committee.
“They have been massive performers in this format of the game. Again, the selection committee will probably be looking at the 2027 World Cup. They will be looking at whether they will be able to be in the team for the 2027 World Cup? Will they be able to make the kind of contributions they have been making? That will be the thought process of the selection committee,” Gavaskar explained.
But when asked about his personal opinion, Gavaskar didn’t hold back.
“No, I don’t think they will be playing. I am being very honest,” he said bluntly.
“But, who knows, in the next year or so, if they strike a rich vein of form, and if they keep scoring hundreds and hundreds, even God can’t drop them.”
His comments reflect both the reality of aging players in international cricket and the unpredictability of form and fitness.
Age and Performance: Key Factors
By the time the 2027 World Cup arrives, Rohit Sharma will be around 40 and Virat Kohli around 38. While age is not everything, the physical demands of international cricket—especially the 50-over format—are intense. The Indian team is also seeing the rise of younger players, and the selectors might prefer building a fresh squad for the future.
There’s also a question of whether Rohit and Virat will still have the motivation and fitness to compete at the highest level for another two years. Although both have shown great dedication and passion, it becomes harder to stay consistent with age.
Though they are still performing at a high level, whether they can maintain this for the next two years is something no one can guarantee.
Conclusion
Sunil Gavaskar’s honest words remind us how unpredictable cricket can be. Legends like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have carried Indian cricket on their shoulders for over a decade. But the game moves on, and selection for major tournaments like the World Cup isn’t based on past glory—it depends on current performance, fitness, and future planning.
As things stand, both players will need to prove themselves in the coming months if they want to be part of the 2027 ODI World Cup squad. The road ahead is not easy, but with their experience and talent, it’s not impossible either.
If they continue scoring runs and remain fit, they might still wear the blue jersey in 2027. If not, Indian cricket will have to look toward a new generation of leaders and match-winners.
What Do You Think?
Do you agree with Sunil Gavaskar’s opinion that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli won’t play in the 2027 World Cup?
Should senior players be backed until the end, or is it better to make room for younger talent?
Share your thoughts and let us know your views below!
