The Indian men’s team’s top selector, Ajit Agarkar, has discussed the management’s plans for the future of the illustrious team of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma as the 2027 ODI World Cup draws near. For the forthcoming three-match ODI series against Australia Down Under, Rohit and Kohli will be back in the Indian colours.
Agarkar reaffirmed the two players’ inclusion in the team against Australia and their prior performance.
But it appeared that he was opposed to handing any player, much less Rohit and Kohli, a long rope.
“They currently play for Australia in the squad. They have been outstanding players for a very long time, as I mentioned earlier. It’s probably not the place to constantly harp on about specific people because you want to attempt to concentrate on the team and what the team hopes to accomplish. We are unsure of the circumstances that will exist in two years. So why only them? Speaking at the NDTV World Summit 2025, Agarkar said, “It might be two younger players.”
Given what they have previously accomplished for the Men in Blue over the years, the experienced pair would not be evaluated harshly, the former India fast bowler made plain, regardless of how they play in the next games.
“You won’t put either person through trials for every game if his average is over 50 and another’s is nearly 50. 2027 is a long time off. They each play a single format. After the Champions Trophy final, they are playing cricket. They are not put through trials after they begin playing, so you can evaluate them as they progress,” he said.
The head of the selection committee concluded by highlighting the team composition and what the management believes is appropriate as the 2027 big event approaches.
In terms of winning runs as well as trophies, they have accomplished what they set out to do. Therefore, it is not that they will not be present if neither of them scores runs in this series; if they do, they will be present in 2027 if they reach 300. We will watch how the team develops; it is still a long way off. As we proceed, we’ll likely be able to gauge the team’s improvement,” Agarkar said.
After three ODIs between India and the Australians, there will be five 20-over matches. Due to their retirement from T20Is and Test matches, Rohit and Kohli will only play in the ODI series.
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