The future of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in Indian cricket, particularly their aspirations for the 2027 ODI World Cup, has become a topic of intense discussion. With both players having stepped back from T20Is in 2024 and Test cricket in early 2025, their participation is now largely limited to bilateral ODIs and the IPL T20 tournament. This reduction in playing time has led to concerns about their "game fitness" and preparedness for major international events.
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has strongly advised both Kohli and Sharma to actively participate in domestic cricket to ensure they maintain the necessary match fitness for the 2027 World Cup. Pathan emphasized the difference between general fitness and "game time fitness," highlighting the importance of regular cricket to stay sharp. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Pathan noted that the significant gaps between the few matches they play before a major tournament like the World Cup necessitate regular game time to remain competitive. He stated that only through consistent participation in domestic cricket can their dream of playing in the 2027 World Cup be realized.
Echoing Pathan's sentiments, legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has also voiced concerns about Kohli and Rohit's preparedness for the 2027 World Cup, considering their limited ODI appearances. Gavaskar stressed that playing just seven or eight ODIs in a season might not be sufficient preparation for a tournament as significant as the World Cup. He suggested that both players should actively participate in domestic tournaments like the Vijay Hazare Trophy to stay in shape and maintain match practice, provided these tournaments do not clash with international ODI commitments.
Furthermore, Ajit Agarkar, the chairman of selectors, has made it clear that no exceptions will be made for Kohli and Sharma regarding domestic cricket. Agarkar emphasized that whenever players are available, they are expected to participate in domestic cricket. This stance indicates a shift towards prioritizing players who are actively engaged in competitive cricket, regardless of their stature.
The conversation around Kohli and Rohit's future has gained momentum with Shubman Gill's appointment as the new ODI captain, succeeding Rohit Sharma. Gill will also lead in Tests, marking a significant transition in Indian cricket leadership. Pathan acknowledged Gill's challenging task of carrying forward the legacies of Kohli and Rohit in Test and white-ball cricket, respectively.
Kohli and Rohit have been named in the squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia, which begins on October 19. This series marks their return to the Indian team since the Champions Trophy 2025 final in March. However, with both players no longer in leadership roles and primarily active in only one format, their long-term future remains uncertain.
The discussion around Kohli and Sharma's participation in domestic cricket underscores the importance of consistent match practice, especially as players approach the later stages of their careers. It also highlights the evolving dynamics within the Indian cricket team, with a focus on promoting younger talent and building a team for the future. Whether Kohli and Rohit heed the advice and participate in domestic cricket remains to be seen, but their decision will undoubtedly impact their chances of representing India in the 2027 ODI World Cup.
