Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have shown no signs of decline in ODI cricket. In fact, some might say they are batting better in the format than they ever have before. Yet, there have been questions raised over their place in the Indian team vis-à-vis the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Age, fitness & form
By the time the ICC events start in 2027, Rohit will be 40 and Kohli 39. It’s safe to say, they aren’t the future of the Indian team anymore. With guys like Ruturaj Gaikwad, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Devdutt Padikkal waiting in line, some aren’t sure where Rohit and Kohli will be two years down the line.
We all saw how quick the decline was in Test cricket, more so for Rohit than Kohli. Within months, both were gone. It seems natural to question where their fitness or form would be in late 2027. Considering ODIs are the least played format now, you also have to make an early decision.
‘No reason to stop’
You can’t just tell them to retire weeks before the ODI World Cup. That way, it’d be an injustice to the modern greats and those replacing them. While many inside Indian cricket aren’t sold on Rohit and Kohli continuing, one of their opponents has backed them.
Interim New Zealand captain Michael Bracewell is amused that some are underestimating the duo. It’s indisputable that they are the best ODI batters since making their debuts in the format. Kohli is often considered the greatest ODI batter. Bracewell wants to compete against them at the ODI World Cup and thinks there is no reason for them to stop now.
“Their records speak for themselves, individually and as a team. They’ve been involved in some great Indian sides and led that side with the bat. You’d be silly to underestimate them, that’s for sure. I’d like to see them play in the (ODI) World Cup. They are obviously still playing very good cricket, so there’s no reason to stop. They’re both playing beautifully, so why not?” Bracewell said during an event at Willingdon Sports Club on January 6.
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