Indian cricket legends Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have set their sights on participating in the 2027 ODI World Cup. However, head coach Gautam Gambhir urged them to concentrate on the present rather than the distant future during a press conference on Tuesday.
The future of Kohli and Rohit comes into question as the national selectors transition towards a new era. Shubman Gill’s recent appointment as the ODI captain signifies a shift in focus for Indian cricket. By the time the 2027 ODI World Cup arrives, Kohli will be 39, while Rohit will be 40, raising discussions about their longevity within the team.
“The 50-over World Cup is still two and a half years away,” Gambhir stated. “It is very important to stay in the present. Obviously, they are quality players, and their experience will be valuable in Australia. Hopefully, both can have a successful tour, and more importantly, as a team, we can have a successful series.”
Sources reveal that Kohli and Rohit’s prospects for the World Cup depend significantly on their upcoming performances in nine ODIs. India faces tough challenges with three matches each against Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand within the next few months, marking a critical phase for their careers.
This year marks Gambhir’s first full term as head coach, and he has focused on revamping the team across all formats. His commitment lies in identifying new talents while maintaining a stable selection process. When asked about the attributes he seeks in players, he noted:
“First and foremost, you look at talent. Then the work ethic. You look at the character in that dressing room — especially in red-ball cricket. You also see how hungry they are. If a player has all these attributes, he will have a successful Test career.”
Gambhir pointed out that international cricket functions in an “insecure environment,” emphasizing the fierce competition for limited spots. He advocates for a longer runway for players to prove themselves instead of persistent changes. He explained this sentiment eloquently:
“It’s important to give players a longer run. Only 15 can represent the country at one time, but many are waiting for their turn. So, if you pick the right characters, give them time to prove themselves rather than chopping and changing.”
On a more emotional note, Gambhir expressed his discontent with the phrase ‘dropping players’. He remarked:
“You don’t drop players, you only select players. When someone misses out, the least a coach can do is be empathetic, not ruthless.”
Praising the team’s discipline during the recent tour of England, Gambhir added:
“The Test squad that went to England was superb in terms of discipline and hard work. For me, that was a huge tick.”
Overall, the focus remains on the players’ present capabilities as they aim to position themselves for a potential role in the 2027 ODI World Cup. The journey ahead will require consistent performance amid rising competition, and only time will tell how Kohli and Rohit adapt to the changing landscape of Indian cricket.
