Despite retiring from both Test and T20 formats, Virat Kohli continues to represent India in One-Day Internationals (ODIs). His long-time teammate Rohit Sharma is also currently active only in the 50-over format. While many speculate that both veterans might bid farewell to international cricket after the 2027 ODI World Cup, legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar isn’t so convinced.
The next ODI World Cup is still two years away. Within just five days, both Rohit and Kohli announced their retirement from Test cricket. Earlier, after India’s triumph in the 2023 T20 World Cup, the duo had jointly stepped away from T20 internationals.
Both players remain involved in ODIs and were in excellent form during the 2023 World Cup. They also performed well in the Champions Trophy. However, Gavaskar believes they may not make it to the 2027 edition.
Speaking on the matter, the former India captain said, “They are outstanding in one-day cricket. The selectors will definitely consider the 2027 World Cup squad, but will Rohit and Kohli be able to play by then? That’s the real question. If the selectors believe they still have what it takes, they’ll get the opportunity. But personally, I don’t think they’ll be part of the 2027 World Cup squad. Then again, if they’re in terrific form next year, scoring centuries consistently, even God won’t be able to keep them out of the team.”
By the time of the 2027 World Cup, Rohit Sharma will be 40 years old and Virat Kohli will be 38. Concerns about Rohit’s fitness persist — during the IPL, he’s been seen focusing mainly on batting with limited fielding involvement. Kohli’s fitness remains solid, but there have been questions about his ability to anchor innings early on.
Gavaskar also addressed Kohli’s unexpected decision to retire from Tests, saying he wasn’t surprised: “Whether a player continues or not is entirely their personal decision. But I wasn’t shocked. After what happened in Australia, a major change was inevitable. So Kohli’s decision didn’t catch me off guard.”
