Bharat‘s highly esteemed batting pair, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, are primed once more to represent the nation as India confronts Australia in the forthcoming three-game ODI series, commencing on October 19 in Perth. The two seasoned players, now having formally stepped away from T20Is and Test matches, are dedicating their focus solely to the 50-over game format, a sphere where they’ve been dominant forces in international cricket for over a decade.
Both mainstays have been crucial to India’s achievements in limited-overs competitions over the years. Rohit, celebrated for his fluid stroke-making and composed leadership, and Kohli, the embodiment of steadiness and intensity, persist in motivating the emerging cohort of Indian cricketers. As the duo gears up for the approaching series, attention has naturally gravitated toward their extended future, notably concerning the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Will Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma participate in the 2027 ODI World Cup? Ajit Agarkar shares his perspective
The pivotal question within Indian cricket circles — Will Rohit and Kohli feature in the 2027 ODI World Cup? — finally garnered a response from BCCI lead selector Ajit Agarkar. During his address at the NDTV Global Summit 2025, Agarkar clarified that a conclusive determination is yet to be reached regarding their involvement in the 2027 World Cup strategies.
“Presently, they are part of the squad in Australia. They stand as exceptional players, but this isn’t the appropriate venue to emphasize specific players,” Agarkar stated.
“Looking ahead two years, it’s challenging to foresee the circumstances. Who knows, there might be younger players who will seize the opportunity. Both are distinguished players, and they won’t be evaluated in every match. Once they commence playing, we will gauge the scenario,” Agarkar further mentioned.
The head selector further remarked that India’s selection strategy will center on securing significant titles, not merely individual displays.
“It’s not as simple as them achieving three centuries in the Australia series ensuring their participation in the 2027 World Cup. We must factor in the prevailing conditions,” Agarkar pointed out.
His remarks arise amidst growing conjecture following the appointment of Shubman Gill as India’s new ODI captain, succeeding Rohit ahead of the Australia series. While both Kohli and Rohit continue to be vital to India’s batting strength, the selectors are reportedly eager to discover a harmonious equilibrium between seasoned experience and youthful vigor as the subsequent World Cup phase commences.
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A review of the remarkable ODI journeys of Rohit and Kohli
In the realm of one-day cricket, only a handful of players throughout history can rival the brilliance of Rohit and Kohli. Rohit, celebrated for his effortless six-hitting ability and groundbreaking double centuries, has accumulated 11,168 runs across 273 ODIs, encompassing 32 centuries and 58 half-centuries. His serene demeanor and strategic acumen have established him as one of India’s premier white-ball captains.
Conversely, Kohli’s achievements speak volumes. The contemporary run-scoring phenomenon has amassed 14,181 runs in 302 ODIs, boasting 51 centuries and 74 half-centuries. Kohli’s unparalleled aptitude for chasing down targets and his voracious appetite for runs have redefined batting standards in contemporary cricket.
As the approaching ODI series draws near, enthusiasts globally will be closely observing — not merely for the runs the two luminaries will score, but also for indications regarding their trajectory in Indian cricket.
Also READ: 3 Centuries, 4 fifties: Virat Kohli’s ODI record in Australia
