Although he stresses each player’s drive and conditioning, former India coach Ravi Shastri thinks Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have “enough cricket in them” for upcoming ODIs, including the 2027 World Cup. As the BCCI denies rumors that the Australia series will be their final, he says that players would choose their own ODI fates, much like they do with their Test retirements.
As the two get ready to return for the forthcoming three-match ODI series against Australia beginning on October 19, former India head coach Ravi Shastri has offered his opinions on Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s future in ODI cricket, including their possible participation in the 2027 World Cup. Since declaring their retirement from Test cricket earlier this year, this is their first time wearing the Indian colors.
In his interview with Fox Sports, Shastri affirmed his belief in the players’ skills and their ongoing drive to support India’s limited-overs cricket team.
“(Virat Kohli is) a master chaser, and Rohit is explosive at the top. They feel they’ve got enough cricket in them,” Shastri said.
The former coach emphasized that the players’ longevity in international cricket would depend on multiple factors.
“It depends how hungry you are, how fit you are, whether that passion for the game is still there. With their experience, it’ll come in very handy,” he stated.
Regarding discussions about the 2027 World Cup in South Africa, Shastri advocated for a more immediate focus.
“I would say take it one series at a time. It’s still a long way to go,” he commented.
Ravi Shastri also weighed in on the possibility of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma deciding their own futures in the ODI format.
“Virat retired from Test cricket, and so did Rohit. They weren’t asked to step down; they made that decision themselves. I would think the same could happen here. If they aren’t enjoying it, or if their form isn’t up to the mark, they might choose to call it a day on their own,” Shastri said.
The BCCI has clarified its position, with Vice-President Rajeev Shukla dismissing reports suggesting that the upcoming Australia ODIs could mark the final international series for both stars.
The series against Australia carries added significance as Kohli and Rohit have already retired from Test and T20I formats. Their contributions in the ODIs will be closely monitored, particularly in the context of India’s white-ball transition and planning for the 2027 Cricket World Cup.
Fans and selectors alike will be keeping a keen eye on their performances in the three-match ODI series to gauge their potential role in shaping India’s future limited-overs strategy.
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