Cricket Desk: Former India captain and ex-BCCI president Sourav Ganguly has cast doubt over the participation of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the 2027 ICC ODI World Cup, warning that the road ahead may not be as straightforward as fans hope.
In a candid interview with PTI, Ganguly acknowledged the duo’s legendary status but emphasized the physical and mental demands of staying match-fit at the highest level, especially as both players approach their 40s.
“It won’t be easy. Fifteen games a year. But all of us must understand that, like everyone else, the game will eventually move on from them, and they will move on from the game,” Ganguly said.
🏏 Kohli & Rohit: ODI Dreams Still Alive?
Both players retired from T20Is after the 2024 World Cup and stepped away from Test cricket in May 2025, fueling speculation that they are preserving themselves for one final ODI World Cup run. However, Ganguly’s remarks suggest that fitness, form, and consistency will be critical if they are to feature in the 2027 squad.
📅 The Road Ahead
India is scheduled to play at least 27 ODIs before the 2027 World Cup. Ganguly believes that Kohli and Rohit must remain active and competitive throughout this period to realistically stake a claim.
“They know the game as much as I do. They’ll make their own decisions,” he added.
🧢 New Era Begins
With Shubman Gill replacing Rohit as Test captain and taking Kohli’s No. 4 spot in the batting order, the Indian team is already transitioning into a new leadership phase. Gill’s recent 147 at Headingley has only strengthened his case as the face of India’s next generation.
Stay tuned for updates on India’s ODI roadmap and squad evolution.
