Former Indian World Cup winner Kris Srikkanth strongly believes that the legendary duo of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli should remain part of India's Playing XI through to the 2027 ICC World Cup. However, he has also urged the Indian management to ensure they are match-ready by having them participate in domestic competitions.
K Srikkanth predicts what will decide Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma’s ODI World Cup 2027 fate
Both Kohli and Sharma, Indian batting stalwarts, have retired from the longest and shortest formats of international cricket, but both have expressed their desire to continue playing in the remaining formats. Amid ongoing speculation and reports questioning the future of the two greats, an update from Indian skipper Rohit Sharma's practice consultant, Abhishek Nayar, has provided some clarity. Nayar revealed that Sharma has lost 10 kgs, showing a strong determination to return to the Indian side for the upcoming Australia series.
Srikkanth emphasized that, given the significant contributions of these two Indian legends, they deserve another opportunity to lift a major title, especially after coming agonizingly close to winning the World Cup in 2023.
"The very fact that they've said they are available, they both want to play the 2027 ODI World Cup, hoping that they win the title, having missed it by a whisker in 2023. I'll surely give it to them because they've done so much," said Kris Srikkanth on his YouTube channel
Srikkanth also suggested that the Indian legends should be strongly encouraged to participate in domestic 50-over games. This strategy would ensure they remain match-ready and maintain their form during the significant gaps that often occur in the international cricket calendar.
"They will have to play all the domestic tournaments across India. You should tell them to start playing the one-day tournaments like Vijay Hazare and other challengers so that they get back into rhythm," he further added.
The legendary duo was last seen playing for India in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy final, a tournament where India secured their second consecutive ICC title under the leadership of Rohit Sharma. Furthermore, the form of both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli has not been a significant concern for the Indian team management, as both batters continue to perform flawlessly despite their age.
"I am sure they themselves know it, having been such stalwarts and successful former captains. Won't they not have that much awareness? They'll know what to do and what not to do. For people who've achieved so much, especially Virat Kohli, I'll give them the extra bit of leverage," Srikkanth stated.
"They have to get at least some match practice. And they'll come and do it. They'll do it automatically; you don't even have to tell them. Probably Virat Kohli is practising in England. How do we know? It's a cricket-playing country. Likewise, Rohit Sharma is probably practising here. So they will be preparing for it," Srikkanth concluded.