New Delhi: Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma continue to remain in contention for India’s squad for the ICC ODI World Cup 2027, with veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin offering a clear and practical assessment of their chances.
Despite concerns around age, both Kohli and Rohit have maintained impressive levels of fitness and form, keeping themselves firmly in the selection conversation for the global tournament, scheduled to be held in South Africa.
Age no barrier for experienced duo
By the time the ODI World Cup 2027 begins, Kohli will be 39 while Rohit will be 40. While such ages often signal the twilight phase of a cricketer’s career, the two stalwarts have defied expectations with consistent performances and strong physical conditioning.
Both players have been actively managing their workload and fitness, ensuring they remain competitive at the highest level. Their recent performances with the bat indicate that they still possess the skill and temperament required for international cricket.
Ashwin shares straightforward view
Speaking on the matter, Ravichandran Ashwin described the situation as “pretty straightforward”, emphasising that the decision ultimately rests with team management and selectors.
According to Ashwin, if the leadership group sees value in having Kohli and Rohit in the squad, their experience can be effectively utilised during the tournament.
“If the management wants both of them at the 50-over World Cup in South Africa and if there is enough energy around it, it is very much possible to keep them on the park and utilise their experience,” Ashwin said in an interaction with ESPNcricinfo.
He also highlighted that the overall environment within the team would play a crucial role in determining their participation.
Importance of support system and planning
Ashwin further pointed out that proper planning, including tailored fitness and rehabilitation programmes, could help extend the careers of senior players.
He noted that a positive team atmosphere and clear communication between players and management would be key factors in ensuring their availability for the tournament.
“If there is a proper rehab programme and something constructed around what they want to do, and if there are good vibes from the other half, the players will manage to make it,” Ashwin added.
His remarks underline the evolving nature of modern cricket, where longevity is increasingly achievable through scientific training, workload management and strategic planning.
Selectors face key decision
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) selectors will have a crucial call to make as they balance experience with the need to groom younger talent for the future.
While Kohli and Rohit bring unmatched experience and proven match-winning ability, the team management must also consider long-term planning and squad transition.
Their inclusion in the 2027 World Cup squad will likely depend on sustained performance, fitness benchmarks and the team’s overall composition closer to the tournament.
Afghanistan series offers immediate focus
For now, both Kohli and Rohit are part of India’s squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Afghanistan, beginning June 13. The series will serve as another opportunity for the veterans to demonstrate their form and readiness.
The squad also includes emerging and established players such as Shubman Gill (captain), KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya and Kuldeep Yadav, reflecting a blend of youth and experience.
Conclusion
As India looks ahead to the ODI World Cup 2027, the presence of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma remains a realistic possibility rather than a distant hope. With the right support system, fitness management and team backing, both players could once again feature on cricket’s biggest stage. Ultimately, their fate will depend on performance, planning and the vision of the team management, but for now, the door remains open.