The ex-Proteas cricketer believes that both Kohli and Rohit, who have been the pillars of Indian batting for more than a decade, will have to feature in a serious amount of competitive cricket if they are to remain strong contenders for the global tournament in 2027.
He highlighted that while the two stalwarts still have the class and experience to dominate world cricket, regular participation in international fixtures and domestic competitions will be crucial in maintaining their form and fitness. With the ODI World Cup 2027 scheduled to be hosted in South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe, the race for spots in India’s squad is expected to be intense.
Kohli, currently India’s highest run-getter across formats, and Rohit, known for his record-breaking ODI double centuries, continue to inspire millions of cricket fans around the world.
Both players have immense experience in handling pressure situations, whether in bilateral series, ICC tournaments, or high-stakes matches like the IPL. However, the South African great stressed that age, workload management, and current form will play defining roles in their journey towards another World Cup appearance.
The former cricketer also pointed out that emerging talents in India are constantly making their mark, which means Kohli and Rohit will need to consistently perform to stay ahead in the selection race. “Experience is invaluable, but consistent match practice is key,” he added. This underscores the importance of balancing youth and experience in India’s squad planning.
For Kohli, who has been the backbone of India’s batting line-up for years, and Rohit, whose ability to anchor innings and accelerate scoring is unmatched, the next two years will be critical. Not only will they need to maintain personal form, but they also must contribute to building a winning combination that can compete effectively in different conditions abroad.
As the cricketing world gears up for ODI World Cup 2027, the focus on India’s iconic batters has intensified. Fans, analysts, and former players alike will be closely watching Kohli and Rohit’s performances across international series and domestic tournaments, evaluating whether the duo can handle the physical and mental demands leading up to the mega-event.
In conclusion, while both Kohli and Rohit have already cemented their legacy in Indian cricket, consistent participation and sustained performance will be the key to ensuring their presence in India’s squad for the 2027 ODI World Cup. Their journey highlights the delicate balance between experience, fitness, and form, keeping them at the forefront of discussions in world cricket for years to come.