Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are poised to rejoin the Indian squad for a three-match One-Day International (ODI) series against Australia, commencing October 19. This series will mark their first appearance for India since the Champions Trophy 2025 final in March. Given that neither player currently holds a leadership position and both are active in only one format, their potential participation in the 2027 World Cup remains uncertain. Legendary former Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has issued a cautionary statement concerning their future involvement.
Speaking to India Today about the likelihood of Kohli and Rohit featuring in the 2027 World Cup, Gavaskar stated, “It largely hinges on the volume of One-Day International matches India participates in over the next two years.”
Gavaskar further emphasized the challenge, saying, “It`s difficult to adequately prepare for a major event like a World Cup when only playing seven or eight ODIs in a season.”
To maintain match fitness and form, Gavaskar advised that Kohli and Rohit might need to participate in domestic tournaments, such as the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
He elaborated, “Players nearing the end of their careers don`t get much exposure or practice otherwise. They would need to play the Vijay Hazare Trophy in India, whenever it`s scheduled and doesn`t conflict with international ODI commitments. This is crucial for staying in shape and keeping up with match practice.”
Despite being India`s second and fourth-highest ODI run-scorers respectively, and mainstays in the squad for over a decade, their futures are becoming increasingly uncertain, especially with Kohli at 36 and Rohit at 38 years old.
Ajit Agarkar, chairman of selectors for the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), declined to comment on whether Kohli or Rohit are being considered for the 2027 World Cup.
Agarkar stated, “We`ve selected them for the Australian series. Regarding the 2027 World Cup, I don`t believe it`s necessary to discuss it now. We shouldn`t look too far ahead; the current focus is on the Australia series. They simply need to continue scoring runs as they have throughout their careers.”
For their return, Kohli and Rohit will play under new leadership, as Shubman Gill, already the Test captain, was appointed ODI captain by the BCCI on Saturday. Gill takes over from Rohit, whose last captaincy stint saw him lead India to a Champions Trophy victory.
