Amid growing speculation over the ODI futures of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, former India batter Mohammed Kaif has thrown his weight behind the veteran duo, insisting their experience will be crucial if India are to challenge for the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.The debate over Rohit and Virat’s places in India’s World Cup plans has intensified in recent weeks, with social media abuzz over reports suggesting one or both senior batters could be phased out before the marquee tournament. However, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia recently dismissed rumours that the third ODI against England at Lord’s would be Rohit’s final appearance in the format.Speaking on Cricbuzz, Kaif said India cannot afford to overlook the experience of Rohit and Virat, especially considering the conditions expected in South Africa.
‘India will need Rohit and Virat in South Africa’
Kaif said the 2027 World Cup will present a completely different challenge compared to previous editions, making the presence of experienced campaigners invaluable.“The 2027 phase will be very important. People are talking about Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma because it won’t be an easy World Cup. The conditions will be different, there will be bouncy pitches, and India will need both these players there. We would definitely want them to play as many matches as possible from now on and remain in good form,” Mohammed Kaif said.
Draws Lionel Messi comparison
Kaif compared Rohit and Virat’s importance to that of football legend Lionel Messi, saying experienced players often contribute beyond just scoring runs or goals.“Lionel Messi is 39 years old and his team has reached the FIFA World Cup final. He didn’t score in the semifinal but provided an assist. That’s what experience brings. When you have younger players who can finish the job, experienced players know how to guide them and create opportunities, So just like Messi is for Argentina, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma is for India in World Cup” he added. The former India batter added that the value of experience remains the same across sports.“Whether it’s football or cricket, experience plays a huge role. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are considered among the greatest ODI players, so India will 100 percent need them, especially under captain Shubman Gill in South African conditions,” Kaif concluded.
