Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has made a startling revelation, claiming that some selectors are eager to see Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma fail. This statement comes amidst discussions about the future of these two stalwarts in the ODI setup, particularly with the 2027 World Cup on the horizon.
Kaif's comments highlight the pressure and scrutiny that Kohli and Sharma face, despite their legendary status in Indian cricket. He suggests that certain individuals, including selectors and members of the media, are waiting for them to falter, potentially to justify their exclusion from the team. Kaif believes Kohli and Sharma are aware of this narrative and are determined to prove their worth and secure their places in the squad.
This sentiment was expressed after India's victory in the third ODI against Australia in Sydney. Both Kohli and Sharma played crucial roles in the win, with Sharma scoring an unbeaten century and Kohli contributing a composed half-century. Kaif noted that before this match, especially after Kohli's consecutive ducks in the first two games, their places in the team were under intense scrutiny. He felt that another failure could have led to a "harsh call" from the selectors, potentially dropping Kohli.
Kaif emphasized the importance of experience in major tournaments like the World Cup. He appealed to selectors not to judge Kohli and Sharma based on just a couple of innings, recognizing their potential to deliver match-winning performances. He acknowledged that while Kohli brings consistency, Sharma is known for impactful, match-winning innings. Kaif had previously expressed concern about selectors judging Sharma's form based on the Australia series, given Sharma's tendency to be inconsistent but deliver in crucial moments.
The former cricketer also touched upon the relationship between Kohli, Sharma, and Gautam Gambhir, the head coach. He noted a perceived distance between the two senior players and Gambhir after the third ODI, suggesting that Kohli and Sharma are relying on their own performances to secure their positions.
Kaif's statements underscore the intense competition and high expectations within the Indian cricket team. While Kohli and Sharma have proven their mettle time and again, they continue to face pressure to perform and justify their place in the squad. As India looks towards the 2027 World Cup, the selectors will have to make tough decisions about the team's composition, balancing experience with the need to build for the future.
