Follow UsFormer India captain Sunil Gavaskar believes that Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma should be automatic selections for the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, provided they remain available - regardless of their form over the next two years.
Having both retired from Tests and T20Is, the senior duo made their return to international cricket after a seven-month gap during the recently concluded ODI series in Australia. Understandably, they looked a touch rusty in the opening two matches - Kohli suffered back-to-back ducks, while Rohit was dismissed for 8 in Perth and then scored a scratchy 73 off 97 deliveries in Adelaide.
However, by the third ODI in Sydney, the pair were back to their fluent best. Rohit slammed an unbeaten 121 off 125 deliveries, while Kohli anchored the chase with 74* off 81 balls. Their unbeaten 168-run partnership steered India to a comprehensive nine-wicket victory, chasing down 237 with ease.
Speaking to India Today, Gavaskar said: “The moment they made themselves available for this trip, it was clear they want to be there for the 2027 World Cup.
"And irrespective of what happens between now and then, whether they score runs or not, with the ability and experience they possess, if they are available, they will be certainties in the squad.
“With this kind of rhythm, you can write their names straight into the World Cup squad for South Africa 2027.”
By the time the next ODI World Cup comes around, Kohli will be 39 and Rohit 40, but their performances in Australia were a timely reminder of how invaluable their experience remains. Gavaskar’s comments highlight the faith many still have in the two modern-day greats to deliver on the biggest stage once again.
To ensure sustained match readiness, both Kohli and Rohit are expected to maintain their rhythm through domestic cricket. Reports suggest they could feature in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy.
The Vijay Hazare Trophy, starting December 24 and running until January 18, provides an opportunity. In the meantime, India have a three-match home ODI series against South Africa from November 30 to December 6, followed by three ODIs against New Zealand from January 11 to 18 - giving both players time to feature in a few games for Delhi and Mumbai, respectively.