Sunil Gavaskar has emphatically stated that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli should be automatic selections for India's squad for the 2027 ODI World Cup, regardless of their performance leading up to the tournament. Gavaskar's declaration comes after the duo demonstrated their class and desire to participate in the upcoming World Cup through their recent performances in the ODI series against Australia.
The former India captain made these comments following India's nine-wicket victory in the third ODI against Australia in Sydney. Rohit Sharma scored a brilliant, unbeaten 121, and Virat Kohli contributed a solid 74 runs to India's success. Their unbroken 168-run partnership led India to a convincing win, preventing a series whitewash. Kohli also achieved a personal milestone during the match, surpassing Kumar Sangakkara to become the second-highest run-scorer in ODIs.
Gavaskar highlighted that Sharma and Kohli making themselves available for the Australia series was a clear indication of their intent to participate in the 2027 World Cup. He emphasized that their experience and ability make them essential components of the team. Speaking to India Today, Gavaskar said that if they are fit and available, they will be certainties in the squad, irrespective of their form in the intervening period. He further asserted that with their demonstrated form, their names should be written "straight into the World Cup squad for South Africa 2027".
Gavaskar's strong endorsement contrasts earlier speculation about whether the senior players would be managed conservatively in the lead-up to the World Cup. He framed their selection not as a sentimental choice, but as a strategic calculation based on their proven capabilities. While acknowledging that the team needs unified support, Gavaskar advised that criticism should be reserved until after a series is completed to avoid demoralizing the players. He also pointed out that while India lost the series, the team's fielding was a significant concern, but praised bowler Harshit Rana for performing well under pressure.
Both Kohli, 36, and Sharma, 38, are only actively playing in one format for India. The three-match ODI series against Australia marked their return to the Indian team since the Champions Trophy 2025 final in March. While BCCI chairman of selectors, Ajit Agarkar, declined to comment on their prospects for the 2027 World Cup, Gavaskar's statement has reignited the debate about the future of these veteran players in the next global tournament. Gavaskar has previously stressed the importance of Sharma and Kohli staying active by participating in domestic tournaments like the Vijay Hazare Trophy to maintain their fitness and match practice.
