New Delhi: Amid growing debate over the future of senior players in Indian cricket, Ravichandran Ashwin has made a strong statement defending Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, asserting that the duo “cannot be touched” if they wish to continue playing for India.

Ashwin’s remarks come at a time when speculation around Rohit Sharma’s place in the ODI setup has intensified, particularly following reports suggesting that selectors may be looking beyond the veteran opener in their long-term plans. However, Rohit’s emphatic return to form with a stunning century in the final ODI against England at Lord’s has added a new dimension to the ongoing conversation.

Ashwin explains why Rohit and Kohli are untouchable

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin outlined two clear reasons why dropping Rohit Sharma or Virat Kohli is not straightforward.

Firstly, he pointed to their unmatched credentials and contributions to Indian cricket over the years. Rohit, who has amassed nearly 12,000 international runs, continues to remain one of the most prolific batters in world cricket.

Secondly, Ashwin highlighted their immense popularity and influence among fans, suggesting that their presence in the team goes beyond just performances on the field.

“They cannot touch Virat and Rohit if they want to play. It is because of their credentials,” Ashwin said, emphasising the weight of their achievements.

He added that both players command a massive fan following, which makes any decision regarding their exclusion highly sensitive. According to Ashwin, removing such high-profile players from the team could trigger a strong public reaction.

Fan following and impact on selection dynamics

Ashwin further elaborated on how fan sentiment plays a role in team selection, particularly when it comes to iconic batters like Rohit and Kohli.

He contrasted their situation with that of bowlers, explaining that while the omission of players such as Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj or Bhuvneshwar Kumar might raise questions, it would not generate the same level of public outcry.

Ashwin’s comments underline a broader reality in Indian cricket, where star power and public perception often intersect with selection decisions. The immense following of players like Rohit and Kohli means that their inclusion or exclusion is closely scrutinised not just by experts, but also by millions of fans.

Rohit responds with a statement knock

While the debate continues off the field, Rohit Sharma delivered a powerful response on it. Under intense pressure and scrutiny, he produced a brilliant innings in the third ODI against England at Lord’s.

After modest scores in the first two matches, Rohit returned to form with a commanding 138 off 110 balls. His innings, studded with 17 fours and five sixes, showcased his class and ability to perform under pressure.

Chasing a daunting target of 388, Rohit kept India in contention almost single-handedly, taking on England’s bowling attack with confidence and authority. Despite the team falling short, his performance served as a reminder of his enduring value to the side.

Selection debate ahead of 2027 World Cup

The discussion around Rohit’s future is also linked to India’s roadmap for the 2027 ODI World Cup, scheduled to be held in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.

With selectors reportedly considering a transition phase, questions have been raised about the role of senior players in the coming years. However, performances like Rohit’s recent century complicate the narrative, reinforcing his case for continued inclusion.

Virat Kohli, too, remains a central figure in India’s batting lineup, with his consistency and experience continuing to be vital for the team across formats.

Conclusion

Ravichandran Ashwin’s comments have added a fresh perspective to the ongoing debate around senior players in Indian cricket. By highlighting both the achievements and the influence of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, he has underscored why decisions regarding their future are far from simple.

As India looks ahead to the next ODI World Cup cycle, the balance between experience and transition will remain a key challenge. For now, Rohit’s bat and Kohli’s stature continue to ensure that they remain firmly in the spotlight.