Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has sparked a debate by suggesting that some selectors are eager to see Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma fail, with the intention of removing them from the ODI squad before the 2027 World Cup. Kaif voiced his strong support for the two batting stalwarts, emphasizing their importance to the team, especially given their experience on South Africa's fast and bouncy pitches.

Kaif's comments come amidst speculation about Kohli and Rohit's future in ODIs, particularly after both players retired from T20Is and Tests, leaving the 50-over format as the primary platform for fans to witness their skills. This speculation intensified ahead of India's recent ODI series against Australia, with early setbacks fueling rumors that their time in the format might be coming to an end. Kohli had consecutive ducks, and Rohit was removed from the ODI captaincy.

However, in the third ODI against Australia in Sydney, both Kohli and Rohit delivered a powerful reminder of their enduring class. After Shubman Gill's early dismissal, Rohit scored an unbeaten 121 off 125 balls, while Kohli contributed a composed 74 not out from 81 deliveries. Their unbroken 168-run partnership led India to a nine-wicket victory, preventing a series whitewash. This was their first century partnership since January 2020.

Kaif analyzed their performance, noting the determination displayed by both players. He stated on his YouTube channel that Kohli and Rohit are aware that "people are waiting for them to fail," including selectors and members of the media. He added, "Ab to zid bhi hai Virat Kohli ki, Rohit Sharma ki," suggesting that both players are now stubborn and determined to prove their critics wrong. Kaif believes they want to leave the format on their own terms and not give anyone the chance to push them out.

Kaif stressed the importance of having Rohit and Virat in the squad, particularly for the World Cup in South Africa. He highlighted Rohit's ability to thrive on bouncy tracks and Virat's proficiency on fast pitches. He dismissed age as a barrier, asserting that both players have done nothing wrong and deserve to be supported. He pointed out that Rohit was stripped of his ODI captaincy despite being the Player of the Match in his last ODI in the Champions Trophy. In that tournament, he was India's second-highest run-scorer.

Kaif believes that the performance in Sydney was a statement from Rohit and Virat about their ambition to play in the 2027 World Cup. He hailed their innings as a message from two legends who are not ready to bow out quietly.