Ashwin sees ‘no reason’ why Kohli and Rohit shouldn’t play 2027 ODI World Cup
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The Future of India’s Batting Stalwarts
The conversation surrounding the longevity of two of India’s greatest cricketers, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, has reached a fever pitch. With the 2027 ODI World Cup scheduled to take place in South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe, the age factor has naturally become a central theme in cricket circles. By the time the tournament kicks off in October next year, Kohli will be approaching his 39th birthday, while Rohit will be over the age of 40. Despite these numbers, R Ashwin has weighed in with a perspective that prioritizes experience and mutual trust.
The “Marriage” of Management and Players
Ashwin, speaking on his thoughts regarding the potential participation of these two legends, compared the relationship between the players and the management to a “marriage.” He emphasized that their presence at the 2027 tournament is not merely about physical fitness but about the collective energy and intent of the team setup. Ashwin sees ‘no reason’ why Kohli and Rohit shouldn’t play 2027 ODI World Cup, provided that there is a genuine desire from the selectors and team management to utilize their vast experience.
According to Ashwin, if the management is fully committed to having them in the squad, the players will inevitably reciprocate that investment. “If there is a proper rehab programme, and there is something that’s constructed around what they want to do, and if there is good vibes from the other half, the players will manage to make it,” Ashwin noted. He highlighted that at this stage of their careers, managing the body is paramount, but the psychological aspect of feeling wanted and supported is equally critical.
Form and Fitness: The Numbers Speak
The debate is not occurring in a vacuum; the performance of both players since 2025 has been nothing short of impressive. Even after stepping back from T20Is and Tests, their contributions to the ODI format remain elite. Kohli, in particular, has maintained a blistering pace, scoring 891 runs at an average of 68.53, punctuated by four centuries. Rohit has been a vital anchor as well, accumulating 711 runs at an average of 44.43.
While fitness challenges are an inherent part of professional sports as players cross the 32-year mark, Ashwin believes that adaptation is key. Although Kohli has faced minor setbacks, such as his current hamstring injury, and Rohit has had to manage his own fitness concerns, their pedigree makes them indispensable for a high-pressure environment like a World Cup in South Africa.
Why Experience is Irreplaceable
Ashwin specifically pointed to Rohit Sharma’s ambition. “He doesn’t have a 50-over World Cup in his kitbag yet,” Ashwin explained. The drive to achieve that final accolade for the nation could serve as a powerful motivator. Beyond individual milestones, the tactical awareness that both Kohli and Rohit bring to the middle cannot be replicated by younger, less experienced players.
- Strategic Value: Their ability to read conditions in South Africa is an asset for the entire team.
- Mentorship: Having seasoned veterans in the dressing room aids the transition of younger talent.
- Pressure Handling: Both players have a proven track record of standing tall during the most intense World Cup encounters.
The Path Forward
As India looks ahead to a rigorous schedule of 20 ODIs leading into January 2027, the road map for these two icons will become clearer. It is a relationship of “give and take.” If the management provides the necessary infrastructure and the players maintain their rigorous fitness standards, there is every reason to believe that the world will see them grace the field in 2027. Ultimately, extracting the maximum value from their experience appears to be the most logical path for Indian cricket to secure success on foreign soil. As Ashwin concludes, these are not just players; they are pillars of the team whose presence makes India undeniably stronger.
