Gambhir, Agarkar make 2027 World Cup stance ‘very clear’
Former India wicket-keeper says Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli should decide 2027 World cup fate
Gautam Gambhir and Ajit Agarkar have clearly outlined their plans for the 2027 World Cup. Irfan Pathan believes they are confident in their selections. However, it remains uncertain whether Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will be part of the team. As we approach the return of Kohli and Sharma, all eyes will be on the three ODIs in Australia, starting October 19. This will mark the first time since the Champions Trophy final that Kohli and Rohit will represent the Indian cricket team.
These three ODIs are significant for several reasons, as they could shape the future of Indian cricket leading up to the 2027 World Cup. A pressing question is whether Kohli and Sharma will be included in the squad heading to South Africa. While Gambhir and Agarkar have shared their insights, the ultimate answer remains elusive, perhaps even to Kohli and Sharma themselves. With the World Cup more than two years away, Rohit will be 40 and Kohli 39, making it rare for two aging players to be part of the Playing XI in such a major tournament.
Rumors suggest that their ODI careers could be at risk if they struggle to maintain their performance. Despite their strong showing earlier this year, much can change in the time leading up to the World Cup. Irfan Pathan emphasizes that the biggest challenge for Kohli and Rohit will be gaining match practice. With Kohli having retired from T20Is last year and Tests three months ago, their focus will be on the IPL and ODIs. If they can keep up their momentum, there’s no reason they can’t be part of India’s plans for the 2027 World Cup.
“For Kohli and Rohit, the main challenge is to play regularly,” Pathan stated. “They are both exceptional players, but staying fit and maintaining game time is crucial. Kohli will participate in the IPL and any available First-Class matches, but he needs to play without the pressure to prove himself. Keeping up with game time won’t be easy, especially as T20 has overshadowed ODIs, leading to fewer matches. If they manage their game time well, the 2027 World Cup shouldn’t pose a challenge, but there will be pressure.”
Pathan also noted that Rohit Sharma is very focused on fitness, and he believes Kohli is equally committed, as seen in his training in England. Their dedication to fitness is commendable. Kohli and Rohit have already begun their preparations, with one training in the indoor nets at Lord’s and the other returning to India after a holiday to train with former India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar.
Beyond Kohli and Rohit, head coach Gautam Gambhir and chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar will also play crucial roles in their future. Pathan is optimistic about their plans for the 2027 World Cup, but he stresses the importance of clear communication. “I hope the communication has been effective,” he said regarding Kohli and Rohit’s prospects after the Australia ODIs. “Knowing Gambhir and Agarkar, I believe they have communicated their intentions clearly. Regular game time will help mitigate challenges. If they don’t play for India currently, the gap after the Australia series and IPL could disrupt their continuity.”
India is set to play at least 27 ODIs before the 2027 World Cup, with more matches likely to be added once the new FTP is established. Kohli and Rohit’s participation in these matches is vital if they hope to compete in one more ICC tournament for India.
