Former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin wants senior duo Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to show that they are serious about playing in the ODI World Cup 2027. Recently replaced as captain, Rohit will be in his 40s for the mega event whereas Kohli will be 38. Ashwin expects Rohit and Kohli to play for India A and represent their respective state sides in Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26. He feels that the selectors would have had a discussion with the two and the main concern is whether they will be able to maintain their form until the World Cup on South African soil.
"There is nothing debatable to speak about Rohit's captaincy. But is he the direction for the 2027 World Cup? That will be the question asked by the selection committee and the coach. They obviously had a discussion, and two things might have emerged: one, Kohli and Rohit are not in our 2027 World Cup plans; two, if they are indeed included, can they maintain their form until the ICC tournament in 2027? Both are big questions," he said.
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Ashwin’s explanation on why Ro-Ko should play domestic cricket
Rohit and Kohli have retired from Tests and T20Is. Ashwin wants them to play domestic cricket to stay in rhythm. He thinks no selector or coach will be able to tell them that they are not required in the team anymore. Their experience will come in handy leading up to the next ODI World Cup.
"If you need their services, you have to find a way. For example, the India 'A' series happened, so you need to ask them to play that series because there is not much 50-over cricket. They should have said that if you don't play the series, I don't think you fit in the plan. If not this series, then they have to play the Vijay Hazare Trophy, because that will let us know the kind of form you are in. I have heard that in the past, some players have been reluctant to play domestic cricket. Maybe they are not motivated to play in an India 'A' series, it could be the case. Therefore, you must give them the opportunity. If you have given them the chance and they said no, then it is clear. If the selector or the coach has told you that I want you to play this series, not for selection purposes, but only to get into the rhythm. It is only to show that they are serious about playing," the 39-year-old said.
"I don't think any selector or coach will have the heart to say that Virat and Rohit's services are no longer needed. That experience cannot be bought in a store. You will have to be really gone wrong somewhere to say that you don't need them. If there is any doubt about whether they will be able to make it to the 2027 World Cup, then I think the direction they have taken seems fair. You cannot go leading up to the World Cup with so many question marks," he further explained.
After Australia, Protea and Kiwi challenge awaits Ro-Ko
After the ODI series in Australia, India will play ODI series at home against South Africa and New Zealand as well. The future of the senior duo will be clear in the next few months.