Ashwin sees ‘no reason’ why Kohli and Rohit shouldn’t play 2027 ODI World Cup – A Deep Dive
The question of whether cricketing titans Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will feature in the 2027 ODI World Cup has become a significant talking point among fans and experts alike. With the tournament slated for October-November 2027 across South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, Kohli will be approaching 39, and Rohit will have surpassed 40. Navigating the demands of international cricket at such an age presents unique challenges, yet former India offspinner R Ashwin offers a compelling perspective. He likens the journey of these two stalwarts potentially reaching the 2027 World Cup to a “marriage,” highlighting that while individual fitness and form are paramount, the unwavering support and “good vibes” from the team management are equally indispensable.
The Intricate Dance: Players, Management, and Longevity
Ashwin articulates that the path for Kohli and Rohit to play in the 2027 ODI World Cup is fundamentally straightforward, provided there is collective intent. “In my experience of how these things pan out, it’s pretty straightforward: if the management wants both of them at the 50-over World Cup in South Africa, and if there is enough energy around it, it’s very much possible to keep them on the park and utilise their experience,” Ashwin explained. This perspective underscores the symbiotic relationship between a player’s ambition and the strategic vision of the team’s leadership. If the management actively desires their presence and invests energy into facilitating it, the chances of their participation significantly increase.
Conversely, Ashwin cautions against any wavering in this support. He notes, “But if there is a thinking that it might steer the other way, the players will be under duress.” This psychological aspect is crucial; doubts from the management can place immense pressure on players, making it harder for them to maintain the rigorous standards required at an advanced age. The mental game often plays as significant a role as the physical one in extending a career.
The Role of Rehabilitation and Adaptation
While Ashwin humbly states he is “no specialist” or “medico scientist,” his insights into player longevity are grounded in years of professional experience. He emphasizes the importance of a meticulously planned “proper rehab programme” tailored to the specific needs of veteran athletes. As players age, their bodies undergo changes, and recovery from injuries becomes a more protracted process. Ashwin observes, “at this age, injuries are par for the course. The body is not the same as it was when it was 35 and below; it’s not the same when you cross 32 itself.” This necessitates a proactive and adaptive approach to fitness and conditioning. Such bespoke programs, designed around their individual goals and physical requirements, are vital for keeping them match-fit.
The “good vibes” Ashwin refers to extend beyond mere verbal assurance; they translate into tangible support systems. This includes access to top-tier medical facilities, specialized training regimens, and a flexible schedule that balances rest with competitive play. It’s a mutual commitment: “The management and the selectors will have to want them being there, [and will] want the best interest in their minds for these players to be able to get there.” When players perceive this genuine commitment from the management, Ashwin believes they are motivated to “put double the hard work than they would otherwise.” This ‘give and take’ dynamic, characterized by strong energy from both sides, is thus deemed critical for their sustained presence until 2027.
Kohli and Rohit: Current Form and Future Prospects
Despite their advanced cricketing age, both Kohli and Rohit have continued to demonstrate their prowess in the ODI format. After reportedly retiring from T20Is in 2024 and Tests in 2025, their focus has seemingly shifted, allowing them to excel in 50-over cricket. Since 2025, they have ranked as India’s highest and second-highest run-scorers in ODIs, respectively. Kohli, in particular, has maintained superior form, accumulating 891 runs at an impressive average of 68.53 during this period, including four centuries and five half-centuries. Rohit, while slightly behind, has also contributed significantly with 711 runs at an average of 44.43, featuring two hundreds and four fifties.
These statistics unequivocally underline their continued impact and value to the Indian ODI setup. Their ability to consistently perform at such high levels, even as younger talents emerge, speaks volumes about their dedication and skill. However, the physical toll of the game remains a pertinent concern. India is scheduled to play another 20 ODIs leading up to early January 2027. Recent injury concerns have already surfaced; Kohli was ruled out of a recent three-match series against Afghanistan due to a hamstring injury, while Rohit joined the squad after recovering from a similar hamstring issue that sidelined him for five matches in IPL 2026. Ashwin acknowledges these challenges, noting that while Kohli’s fitness “has been great,” Rohit “needs to keep working on that to keep himself on the park.”
The Unfulfilled Dream: Rohit’s World Cup Aspiration
A significant motivating factor for Rohit Sharma, as highlighted by Ashwin, is the desire to lift the 50-over World Cup trophy. “He doesn’t have a 50-over World Cup in his kitbag yet,” Ashwin remarked, emphasizing Rohit’s strong aspiration to “go there to the 2027 World Cup and showcase that, and win yet another silverware for himself and for the nation.” This unfulfilled ambition could be a powerful driver for Rohit to maintain his fitness and form. His extensive contributions to Indian cricket already warrant a place, and the hunger for a World Cup title would only amplify his resolve.
The presence of seasoned campaigners like Kohli and Rohit in an away World Cup, especially in conditions like South Africa, is invaluable. Ashwin strongly advocates for leveraging their experience: “Till you have experienced cricketers like Virat and Rohit in your side, [and] in your ranks, going for an away World Cup in a country like South Africa, I think you should extract as much experience as you can from those.” Their profound understanding of high-stakes matches, diverse pitches, and opposition strategies can be a decisive factor, guiding younger players and anchoring the team under pressure. Their leadership on and off the field provides a critical layer of stability and strategic acumen.
Ultimately, Ashwin’s assertion stands firm: he sees ‘no reason’ why Kohli and Rohit shouldn’t play 2027 ODI World Cup. Their mere presence elevates the team, not just with their runs and leadership, but with the aura of their extensive experience in international cricket. For India to field its strongest possible squad in 2027, harnessing the enduring talent and wisdom of these two cricketing giants appears to be a logical and highly beneficial strategy, provided the collective will of players and management remains strong.
