The BCCI is starting to focus its attention in the long term on creating a team for the 2027 ODI World Cup, one which may see stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli could become ‘former players’ soon according to a report by the Telegraph. Even though both the veteran players have been included in India’s team for the coming ODI series against Australia, the significant shift was with Shubman Gill replacing Rohit as captain one which has seen divided reactions from fans and pundits.
The report hints that in the future, team selection will purely be based on performance, i.e., inclusion of both Rohit and Virat would solely rely on form and fitness at present and not on reputation. It also added that qualification for the 2027 World Cup team may be a tall order for the two contemporary greats.
“The national selection committee’s decision to remove Rohit from the ODI captaincy has sent across a stern message to perform or perish and practically put them on notice,” the report said.
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“As the selectors chalk out the roadmap for the 2027 World Cup, it will be tough for both the stalwarts to look beyond the three ODIs in Australia. India will then play three more matches against South Africa in November-December and as many versus New Zealand in January.”
“Not many believe that they can perform at their best after more than seven months of hiatus from competitive cricket. Sources in the BCCI suggest that Rohit, who would be 40 when the quadrennial showpiece event gets underway in South Africa, was never in the selectors’ shortlist,” the report added.
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The duo last represented India in March 2025, when they played central roles for the team in the Champions Trophy victory. Neither has appeared in international cricket since that tournament, though, other than in appearances for the Indian Premier League (IPL).
