Should Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma Play the 2027 World Cup?
As India prepares for the 2027 World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia, selectors face a tough choice: retain two of the country’s greatest batters, or invest in the next generation?
Still Among the Best — But For How Long?
Latest ODI rankings show both Kohli and Rohit remain among the top batters in the world. Their career records are exceptional, but World Cup selection will focus on recent performance: conversion rates, strike rates against pace and form in away series. If they continue to produce match-defining innings over the next 12 to 18 months, their selection is easier to justify. If not, selectors will face pressure to move on.
Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli in the image celebrating the win.
Age and Fitness: The Hard Truth
By late 2027 Rohit will be around 40 and Kohli about 38. Age affects recovery and injury risk. Both have reduced Test workloads, which could help manage fitness. Selectors will monitor more than runs: fielding metrics, running between wickets and recovery in multi-match tours will be key considerations.
South African Conditions Demand Toughness
The 2027 tournament will be played on pitches that favour pace and bounce. India will need openers who can handle the moving ball and a middle order that can rotate strike under pressure. Both veterans have performed well in such conditions historically, but selectors will value recent evidence of adaptability on similar tracks.
Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli together the winning cards for India.
India’s Bench Strength
India has promising young batters waiting in line. Names like Shubman Gill and others provide options. The choice is therefore strategic: pick experience and stability now, or give young players World Cup exposure that will benefit the team long term.
Selection Scenarios
Experience-First Approach
If both Kohli and Rohit remain among the top ODI performers and are fit through 2026–27, India may keep both for their proven ability in big moments.
Transition Plan
If one player’s form or fitness falls, selectors could retain the other and bring in a younger batter to gain experience. This blending approach combines mentorship with succession planning.
What Will Decide Their Fate
Selectors will examine ODI averages and strike rates in 2025–27, performance against top pace attacks, fitness benchmarks and match impact. Modern selection is data-driven; reputation alone will not secure World Cup places.
Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli more then friends.
Verdict
Kohli and Rohit are legends, but World Cups demand current form and fitness. If they continue to deliver top ODI numbers and clear medical checks, they should be included. If not, India should prioritise form and future planning. The data, not nostalgia, should decide.
At a glance: — South Africa, Zimbabwe & Namibia. Timeline — October–November 2027. Kohli’s age — 38. Rohit’s age — 40.
