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Wasim Jaffer picks India XI for 2027 ODI World Cup

Siyan Sethi
· 4 min read
rohit sharma and virat kohli 27 07 2026

Looking Ahead to the 2027 ODI World Cup

The journey toward the 2027 ICC Men’s ODI World Cup has officially begun. With the tournament set to be co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, the cricketing landscape is already buzzing with anticipation. For the Indian team, the objective remains clear: to build on the foundation laid in previous years and secure the ultimate prize in the 50-over format. As speculation mounts regarding the composition of the squad, the strategic vision of cricket experts is being closely monitored by fans and analysts alike.

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. (Credits: X.com)

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India, having finished as runners-up in the previous edition, is expected to enter the upcoming World Cup under a new leadership direction, with Shubman Gill widely tipped to take the reins. However, this transition phase brings forward a significant strategic dilemma for the selectors: should the team prioritize youth and rapid rejuvenation, or should they continue to rely on the proven excellence of legendary figures like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli?

Wasim Jaffer keeps faith in India’s experienced stars

Addressing this debate, former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer has provided his own blueprint for the future. Wasim Jaffer picks India XI for 2027 ODI World Cup by advocating for a balanced approach that merges the undeniable experience of seasoned campaigners with the current core of the team. His selections highlight a firm belief that for a tournament as high-pressure as the World Cup, experience remains the most valuable asset in the dressing room.

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In his proposed lineup, Jaffer has opted for continuity. He retains Rohit Sharma to partner with Shubman Gill at the top of the order. While Gill is viewed as the natural successor to lead the side, Jaffer argues that Rohit’s tactical acumen and batting prowess remain essential for India’s campaign. This opening partnership aims to provide both explosive potential and the structural stability required to navigate long group stages.

The middle order remains anchored by familiar names. Virat Kohli maintains his position at No. 3, a spot he has made his own, while Shreyas Iyer is slotted in at No. 4 to provide reliability against both spin and pace. KL Rahul is included as the primary wicketkeeper-batter, with Hardik Pandya serving as the vital pace-bowling all-rounder who provides the necessary depth and tactical flexibility for the team.

A Balanced Bowling Attack

Beyond the batting lineup, Jaffer has emphasized the importance of a formidable bowling attack. His XI features Axar Patel as the spin-bowling all-rounder, a selection that adds variety and depth to the lower-middle order. Kuldeep Yadav serves as the primary spin specialist, tasked with taking wickets in the middle overs—a role he has excelled in throughout his career.

The pace department is perhaps the most settled aspect of Jaffer’s XI. He has leaned on the tested trio of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Mohammed Siraj. By selecting these three, Jaffer is banking on their vast experience in ICC tournaments and their proven ability to deliver under extreme pressure. This is a clear signal that he values the ‘big-match’ temperament over the risks associated with experimental selection.

The Strategy Behind the Selection

The core philosophy behind this team selection is straightforward: win now by utilizing those who have already mastered the art of ODI cricket. While the tournament is still some time away, Jaffer maintains that if the veteran duo of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli continue their current levels of performance, their presence will be non-negotiable for India’s quest for World Cup glory. This conservative, risk-averse approach aims to minimize the learning curve that often hampers younger, less experienced squads in global events.

Wasim Jaffer’s India XI for the 2027 ODI World Cup:

  • Openers: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill (Captain)
  • Middle Order: Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer
  • Wicketkeeper: KL Rahul
  • All-rounders: Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel
  • Bowlers: Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj

As the countdown continues, Jaffer’s XI provides a compelling look at what a ‘ready-to-win’ Indian side might look like. Whether the selectors follow this path or move toward a more youthful overhaul remains one of the most intriguing sub-plots in the lead-up to 2027.

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Siyan Sethi

Siyan Sethi is a senior cricket correspondent for The Telegraph India, widely regarded as one of the freshest and most thoughtful voices covering women's cricket in the country. A graduate of Chennai's M.O.P. Vaishnav College, she began her career reporting on college and university women's tournaments before transitioning to the national beat. Siyan follows the Indian women's team at every ICC event and has been a constant presence through the transformative early years of the Women's Premier League. Her writing is known for combining sharp tactical observation—particularly around the rise of power‑hitting and athletic fielding—with a deep commitment to tracking the grassroots pathways that bring young girls from small‑town academies into the professional game. Siyan also contributes comparative pieces on global T20 leagues such as The Hundred and the WBBL, placing Indian developments in an international context. A RedInk Award recipient, she is committed to challenging gender biases in sports media and creating space for the next generation of female cricket storytellers.

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