Gautam Gambhir, in a press conference after the 2nd IND vs WI Test, addressed speculation around Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s ODI future ahead of the 2027 World Cup.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, legendary cricketers from India, are currently participating in one-day internationals. However, there is considerable speculation regarding their eligibility for the ICC World Cup 2027.

The IND vs AUS ODI series has prompted much discussion regarding the team’s future in international cricket, as Shubman Gill has assumed the role of captain in this format and succeeded Rohit.

The head coach of the team, Gautam Gambhir, has now offered an insight into the potential requirements for Kohli and Rohit to remain with the team until the upcoming World Cup.

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The Statements of Gautam Gambhir Regarding Kohli and Rohit

During a press conference following India’s Test series victory over West Indies, Gautam Gambhir was reportedly questioned about the potential involvement of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the team’s 2027 World Cup plans.

In response, he replied as follows:

“I feel that it is crucial to remain in the present, as the ODI World Cup is still approximately two and a half years away.” Naturally, there will be a limited number of high-quality athletes returning to Australia, and their experience will be quite limited. It is my sincere hope that the two fellows will have a successful tour, and, more significantly, that we will have a successful tour as a team.

This statement implies that the three 50-over matches against Australia are of paramount importance to the two senior players’ World Cup aspirations.

The age of the players and the remaining time in the tournament are not in their benefit, although it has not been explicitly stated that they would be dropped if they fail to score runs.

In order to provide context, Rohit Sharma will be 40 years old when the 2027 World Cup is held. On the other hand, Kohli would be 38 years old.

India vs Australia: ODI Schedule

India vs Australia 1st ODI – October 19, 2025

India vs Australia 2nd ODI – October 23, 2025

India vs Australia 3rd ODI – October 25, 2025

After this series, India will remain in Australia for a five-match T20 series. Obviously, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will not be involved in those contests, as they both retired from the format in 2024.