India veterans Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have been backed to retain their places in the ODI setup, but with a clear message: start strong and stay consistent as the road to the ICC Cricket World Cup 2027 begins.

Former India wicketkeeper Deep Dasgupta dismissed speculation around the duo’s future, stating that no special conversation is needed regarding their place in the team. However, he emphasised that both players must deliver from the very first match of a series.

“No room for slow starts”

Dasgupta pointed out that modern cricket leaves little margin for players to “settle in” over multiple games.

He explained that both Kohli and Rohit can no longer afford to take one or two matches to find rhythm, especially given the increasing competition and scrutiny in ODI cricket.

  • Rohit Sharma recently bounced back with a century at Lord’s after a slow start in the England series
  • Virat Kohli contributed with two half-centuries, showing signs of form

Despite these performances, the expectation is clear—impact games immediately.

Selection debate driven by format limitations

The discussion around their future has intensified partly because both players are now primarily active in ODIs.

Dasgupta noted that when cricketers play across formats, poor performances in one are often offset by success in another. However, with Kohli and Rohit focusing on a single format, every innings is closely judged.

This has also led to speculation about younger players like Yashasvi Jaiswal being considered as long-term options.

Backing experience, but with accountability

Dasgupta made it clear that the approach toward the two senior players should remain unchanged from previous years—selection based on performance, not reputation alone.

He stressed that:

  • Their experience remains invaluable
  • They still have the ability to deliver at the highest level
  • But expectations around consistency are now higher than ever

The role of team management and support staff will be crucial in ensuring that players are mentally and tactically prepared to perform right from the start of a series.

Road to 2027 World Cup

With the next ODI World Cup still a few years away, India has time to shape its squad. However, performances in upcoming bilateral series will play a key role in determining the core group.

For Kohli and Rohit, the message is simple—no doubts over their class, but no room for slow starts either.