Former Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan recently shared his views on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for the ICC ODI World Cup 2027. Dhawan said both the experienced batsmen still provide immense value and leadership, especially in high-pressure global events where experience often proves decisive for the team’s success.
Rohit and Virat had retired from Test cricket in May last year. With fewer One Day International matches scheduled each year, there are concerns over whether limited match exposure could affect their fitness levels, consistency and long-term performance as they head towards the upcoming ODI World Cup.
Shikhar Dhawan Back Rohit Sharma And Virat Kohli for ICC World Cup 2027
When the World Cup takes place in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia, Rohit Sharma will be 40, while Virat Kohli will be 38. Shikhar Dhawan dismissed concerns about age and said his experience is valuable to the team.
“Of course they can, and they should play. Both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are experienced, and you need experience going into the ODI World Cup, which is only a year away,” Dhawan told ANI.
After a successful Champions Trophy 2025 campaign, the Indian management initiated a leadership change. Shubman Gill has been made the ODI captain in place of Rohit Sharma, leading to speculation whether Rohit and Kohli could be dropped before 2027.
Virat Kohli eyes 2027 World Cup with mixed recent form
Despite retiring from Test matches and T20 Internationals, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are clear about their intention to play in the 2027 Cricket World Cup. Both the senior batsmen have continued to focus completely on One Day Internationals and have shown strong form in this format.
Virat Kohli performed brilliantly in the ODI series against New Zealand in January 240 runs in three ODI matches An average of 80 and a strike rate above 105. His performance answered questions about his form and age, as he remained consistent throughout the series.
On the other hand, Rohit Sharma faced a slight decline after good performances against Australia and South Africa. His average in the three-match series against New Zealand was 20.33, which shows a slight decline in form.
Shikhar Dhawan praised Vaibhav Suryavanshi amid IPL 2026
During the same discussion, Shikhar Dhawan praised Rajasthan Royals (RR) young player Vaibhav Suryavanshi for his fearless batting. He said the young batsman handles high pace well, showing no hesitation against top bowlers who consistently clock speeds above 145 kmph.
Dhawan said, “Vaibhav Suryavanshi is performing very well. I am very impressed with him. The way he is facing bowlers bowling at 145 kmph with ease is fantastic and the day is not far when he will debut for India.”
Vaibhav Suryavanshi is enjoying a fantastic IPL 2026 season for Rajasthan Royals. He currently leads the race for the Orange Cap with 400 runs in nine matches at an average and strike rate of 44.44. 238.10Which includes one century and two half-centuries.
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