Ranchi, December 1, 2025 - Following India's 17-run victory over South Africa in the first ODI in Ranchi, India's batting coach Sitanshu Kotak addressed the media, and speculation surrounding the future of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the lead-up to the 2027 Cricket World Cup was firmly dismissed.
Kotak's remarks came after Kohli's outstanding century, his 52nd in ODIs, which played a crucial role in India's win. The batting coach lauded Kohli's innings, emphasizing the value of experienced players in the team. "It was an outstanding knock, obviously. He batted really well, not just in the one-day format but all the formats he has done well," Kotak said. He further added, "This was the 52nd ODI hundred he got, so he's a thoroughly outstanding player, and he took responsibility, and the way he batted was very good".
When questioned about the long-term plans for the 2027 World Cup and the potential roles of Kohli and Sharma, Kotak brushed aside the speculation. "I don't know why we need to look at all this. He's really batting well. I don't see any reason we need to talk about his future," he stated. Kotak stressed that the focus should remain on their current form and contributions to the team, rather than their age or long-term prospects.
"It's just the way he's batting, it's just brilliant, man. I wouldn't really. The way he's performing, the way he maintains his fitness, there is, there are no questions about anything," Kotak asserted. He highlighted that both Kohli and Sharma's experience and partnership make a significant difference to the team.
Kohli himself has also recently addressed speculation about his future, particularly regarding a potential return to Test cricket. "I am just playing one form of the game. That's how it is going to be," he stated, putting an end to rumors that he might reconsider his retirement from the format.
Kotak's firm response echoes the sentiment that Kohli's current form and fitness levels are more than enough reason to keep him in the team. His childhood coach, Rajkumar Sharma, also praised Kohli's recent performance, emphasizing his consistency, fitness, and match-winning capabilities. Sharma expressed hope that Kohli would continue playing for many more years, bringing joy to fans and maintaining his exceptional level of performance.
The discussion around Kohli and Sharma's future gained traction after India's 2-0 Test series loss to South Africa. With both players returning to the ODI squad, there's a renewed sense of energy and focus on white-ball cricket. KL Rahul is leading the team in the absence of the injured Shubman Gill.
For now, the Indian team and its fans can focus on enjoying the present form of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, with the 2027 World Cup still some time away.
