India‘s most celebrated batting duo, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, are once again ready to don the national colours as India take on Australia in the upcoming three-match ODI series, starting October 19 in Perth. The two veterans, who have now officially retired from T20Is and Test cricket, are focusing solely on the 50-over format, a domain in which they have dominated world cricket for more than a decade.
Both stalwarts have been instrumental in India’s limited-overs success over the years. Rohit, known for his effortless stroke play and calm leadership, and Kohli, the epitome of consistency and aggression, continue to inspire the next generation of Indian cricketers. As the duo prepares for the upcoming series, the focus has naturally shifted towards their long-term future, especially concerning the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Will Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma play the 2027 ODI World Cup? Ajit Agarkar responds
The burning question in Indian cricket circles — Will Rohit and Kohli play in the 2027 ODI World Cup? — finally received a response from BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar. Speaking at the NDTV World Summit 2025, Agarkar made it clear that no final decision has been taken yet regarding their inclusion in the 2027 World Cup plans.
“They are part of the squad at the moment in Australia. They are incredible players, but it is not the forum to harp on about individual players,” Agarkar said.
“Two years from now, it is difficult to say what the situation will be. Who knows, there can be younger players who will take the spot. Both are great players, and they will not be put to the test in every match. Once they start playing, we will assess the situation,” added Agarkar.
The chief selector further added that India’s selection decisions will revolve around winning major trophies, not just individual performances.
“It is not like if they score three hundreds in the Australia series, they will play the World Cup in 2027. We have to take the situation into consideration,” Agarkar noted.
His comments come amid growing speculation after Shubman Gill was named India’s new ODI captain, succeeding Rohit ahead of the Australia series. While both Kohli and Rohit remain key to India’s batting depth, the selectors are reportedly keen to strike a balance between experience and youth as the next World Cup cycle begins.
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A look at the incredible ODI careers of Rohit and Kohli
When it comes to one-day cricket, few players in history can match the brilliance of Rohi and Kohli. Rohit, renowned for his effortless six-hitting and record-breaking double centuries, has amassed 11,168 runs in 273 ODIs, including 32 centuries and 58 fifties. His calm temperament and tactical awareness have made him one of India’s finest white-ball captains.
Meanwhile, Kohli’s record speaks for itself. The modern-day run machine has scored 14,181 runs in 302 ODIs, boasting 51 centuries and 74 fifties. Kohli’s remarkable ability to chase down targets and his hunger for runs have redefined batting in modern cricket.
As the next ODI series approaches, fans around the world will watch closely — not just for the runs the two icons will score, but also for hints about their future in Indian cricket.
Also READ: 3 Centuries, 4 fifties: Virat Kohli’s ODI record in Australia
