Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma 2027 World Cup: Ashwin Backs Veteran Duo for Another Global Challenge

Former Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has expressed confidence that veteran stars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma can remain key members of the Indian team for the 2027 ICC Men’s ODI World Cup. According to Ashwin, the experience, leadership, and match-winning abilities of both players could prove invaluable for India in the tournament scheduled to be held in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.

Image Source- Samachar Ei samay

By the time the tournament starts in October-November 2027, Virat Kohli will be around 39 years old, and Rohit Sharma will be over 40. Ashwin is of the opinion that with proper planning, rehabilitation, and support from the team management, both players can continue to perform at the highest level despite concerns about age and fitness.

As for the future of the senior batters, Ashwin was emphatic that age should not be a factor in a player’s place in the squad. “Instead, fitness, workload management, and confidence from selectors and coaches should play a big part. “If the team management creates a positive atmosphere and backs the players, there is every possibility of both Kohli and Rohit being available for the next World Cup,” he said.

The former spinner also highlighted the importance of handling injuries carefully. And as players get older and the physical changes become more apparent, it’s harder to bounce back. Ashwin said the relationship between the players and management was like a partnership and both sides need to work together to reach the goal of reaching the 2027 World Cup.

The numbers further support Ashwin’s belief. Since 2025, Virat Kohli has been in outstanding ODI form, scoring 891 runs at an impressive average of 68.53, including four centuries and five half-centuries. Rohit Sharma has also delivered consistent performances, scoring 711 runs at an average of 44.43, with two centuries and four fifties to his name.

While Kohli is currently recovering from a hamstring injury and will miss the upcoming ODI series against Afghanistan, Rohit Sharma has returned to action after overcoming an injury setback suffered during IPL 2026. Ashwin believes Kohli’s fitness remains one of his greatest strengths, whereas Rohit will need to manage his workload carefully over the next 18 months.

Looking ahead, Ashwin sees no reason why the veteran duo should not be part of India’s ODI World Cup squad 2027. And in the tough conditions of South Africa, the experience and temperament of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma could be a huge edge for India, where big tournaments are often won on those attributes. Once again, their leadership and know-how could be crucial to India’s World Cup ambitions.