'Deserves a place fully if he...': Former India head coach answers on Rohit Sharma's inclusion in 2027 World Cup spot ahead of Australia ODIs

Former India coach Sanjay Bangar believes that batting great Rohit Sharma merits a place in India's squad for the 2027 ODI World Cup if he manages to retain his form and fitness. Bangar highlighted that Rohit had adopted a selfless approach and led from the front.

Notably, Rohit, who led India to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 triumph, has already announced his retirement from T20Is and Tests. The BCCI also appointed Shubman Gill as his sucessor to lead India in ODIs ahead of the upcoming white ball series against Australia that includes three-match ODIs and five-match T20I series.

Sanjay Bangar on Rohit Sharma's ODI World Cup 2027 participation

During a discussion on Star Sports, Bangar was asked about the importance of Rohit's presence in the Indian dressing room during the three-match ODI series against Australia.

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"Rohit Sharma wanted to set a different template. When India weren't able to cross the last step in 50-overs cricket, he took huge responsibility on himself about how he would bat in the first 10 overs. He has done a lot of things for the team's benefit," the former India all-rounder responded.

"You want to see exceptional performances from Rohit Sharma because based on the feeling he has conveyed and the interviews we have read, I feel he is still very eager to play till the 2027 World Cup, and if he retains his form and fitness, I feel he deserves a place fully," he added.

Rohit Sharma's ODI career

Notably, Rohit Sharma has so far played 273 ODIs, where he has amassed 11168 runs at an average of 48.76. He has a great record against Australia, scoring 2407 runs at an average of 57.30 in 46 ODIs.

Rohit will now be seen featuring in the Shubman Gill-led squad in the three-match ODI series against Australia alongside batting great Virat Kohli.

India's ODI squad

Shubman Gill (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (VC), Axar Patel, KL Rahul (WK), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Yashasvi Jaiswal.