Former Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar opines that Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have already indicated their desire to play in the 2027 ODI World Cup. Their established class and breeding, he feels, should automatically qualify them to play on condition that they remain fit and inclined to do so.
Speaking to India Today after India’s dominant nine-wicket victory over Australia in Sydney in the third ODI, Gavaskar applauded their temperament and handling the situation under immense pressure. His words came after a vintage performance from India’s experienced batsmen at the SCG, in which Rohit ended the series with a fashionable century, and Kohli, recovering from two successive ducks, steadied the run-chase with an unbeaten 74. The two of them created an authoritative 168-run stand, turning what looked a challenging target into an easy win and saving a series whitewash.
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“The moment they made themselves available for this trip, it was clear they want to be there for the 2027 World Cup,” Gavaskar remarked. “And irrespective of what happens between now and then, whether they score runs or not, with the ability and experience they possess, if they are available, they will be certainties in the squad,” said Gavaskar. He doubled down on the point, “With this kind of rhythm, you can write their names straight into the World Cup squad for South Africa 2027.”
Their success sparked debate regarding their roles in the subsequent World Cup. Gavaskar’s words also served as a departure from recent views stating that India must handle the veterans with care leading up to 2027. The batting legend, however, rejected the prospect of age and sentiment playing a role in selection, highlighting instead that consistent quality and match-winning skills should be the priority provided both players are fit and committed.
