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As Indian cricket pivots toward a new generation, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is preparing to hold candid discussions with two of its most iconic players—Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma—regarding their future in One Day Internationals and the 2027 World Cup. With both players nearing 40 by the time the tournament kicks off in South Africa, their inclusion is no longer a certainty.
Key Developments
- Kohli and Rohit have retired from T20Is and Tests, leaving ODIs as their only active international format
- BCCI sources confirm that conversations will be held soon to assess their physical and mental readiness for the 2027 World Cup
- India is scheduled to play only 27 ODIs before the tournament, raising concerns about match fitness and rhythm
- The next ODI appearances for both players are expected in October against Australia, followed by series against South Africa, New Zealand, and England
- BCCI is also considering giving more opportunities to emerging players to build a future-ready squad
The Age Factor and Limited Game Time
- Virat Kohli is currently 36 and Rohit Sharma is 38
- By November 2027, both will be approaching 40, a rare age for active top-tier cricketers in the ODI format
- Since the Champions Trophy win in March 2025, neither has played competitive cricket
- Their absence from domestic tournaments like the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy could further impact match readiness
- BCCI mandates domestic participation for fit players, though exemptions for legends like Kohli and Rohit are not uncommon
Changing Team Dynamics
- India’s recent 2-2 draw in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy against England showcased the rise of young talents like Mohammed Siraj, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Washington Sundar
- The team’s evolving core is increasingly built around fearless, match-fit youngsters
- With the ODI squad also undergoing transition, the inclusion of aging veterans must be weighed against long-term strategic goals
- Kohli and Rohit’s contributions to white-ball cricket are undisputed, but their roles may need to be redefined
BCCI’s Approach
- The board is not expected to force retirement decisions but will initiate honest and professional conversations
- Discussions will focus on the players’ mental and physical preparedness, long-term commitment, and alignment with team strategy
- If Kohli and Rohit express intent to continue, they may be asked to participate in domestic ODIs to maintain form
- A phased transition or formal farewell could be considered depending on their performance and availability
What Lies Ahead
- India’s next ODI series begins in October against Australia, followed by matches against South Africa in November
- Between January and July 2026, India will play six ODIs against New Zealand and England
- These limited opportunities may not be sufficient for Kohli and Rohit to regain peak form
- The final decision will hinge on their consistency, fitness, and ability to contribute meaningfully to the team’s World Cup campaign
Conclusion
The road to the 2027 World Cup is paved with uncertainty for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. While their legacy remains untouched, the demands of modern cricket and the rise of a new generation compel BCCI to reassess its ODI roadmap. Whether the duo will don the Indian jersey in South Africa or pass the baton remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—the next few months will be crucial in shaping India’s World Cup destiny.
Sources: Hindustan Times, MSN, Cricbuzz, PTI, OneIndia, ProBatsman, NewsBytes, The Cricket Panda, IPL.com
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