Gautam Gambhir feels Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will take part in the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Head coach Gautam Gambhir of Indian cricket team is hoping that both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli would be eligible for selection until the 2027 ODI World Cup, believing that the combination still has a lot of crickets left in them. Following India’s victory in the T20 World Cup 2024 in the Caribbean last month, Kohli and Rohit retired from the shortest format.

While both are now on holiday after a tough three months of non-stop cricket, which included the IPL, Rohit and Kohli will return to action in the ODIs against Sri Lanka beginning next month. Gambhir’s first visit of Sri Lanka will also mark his debut as head coach.

Gambhir also believes the veteran duo will play an important role in India’s ICC Champions Trophy campaign next year in Pakistan. “I think they’ve shown what they can do on the big stage, whether it’s the T20 World Cup or the 50-over World Cup,” Gambhir told reporters on Monday in his maiden press conference as India’s head coach.

“One thing is certain: both of those guys still have a lot of crickets in them. More notably, with the 2025 Champions Trophy and a major trip of Australia (at the end of 2024). Clearly, they would be motivated enough. And, ideally, if they maintain their condition, the 2027 (ODI) World Cup,” he continued.

Gambhir stated that his friendship with Kohli “is between the two of us and not for TRPs” when asked about it. Gambhir and Kohli have not been great friends, as seen by their several disagreements in the IPL. However, the duo will now collaborate beginning with the tour of Sri Lanka on July 27.

“My relationship with Virat Kohli is between the two of us and not for TRP,” Gambhir clarified. In reference to Kohli, Gambhir stated, “We have had many discussions, and everyone has the right fight for their jersey.” With the loss of experienced players Rohit Sharma and Kohli from the T20 International scene, Gambhir believes that workload management for someone like Jasprit Bumrah becomes more important.

“Jasprit Bumrah’s workload is essential. Now that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will only play two formats, I expect them to be available for the most of games,” Gambhir remarked.