Former Indian cricket team head coach Ravi Shastri has weighed in on the future of veteran batsmen Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in ODI cricket, specifically addressing their potential participation in the 2027 World Cup. With both players having retired from T20 Internationals and Test cricket, the question of their longevity in the 50-over format looms large.
Australia Series: A Deciding Factor
Shastri stated that Kohli and Sharma's hopes for the 2027. World Cup will hinge on their form, fitness, and continued passion for the game. He underscored the importance of the upcoming ODI series against Australia, scheduled to begin on October 19 in Perth, as a significant assessment for their performances, while shastri believes that consistent strong performances in this series will be essential for them to solidify their places in the ODI squad.
Shastri's Perspective
Speaking at the 'Summer of Cricket Launch Event' for Kayo Sports, as reported by PTI, Shastri remarked, "That's why they're here (playing the ODI series against Australia). They're part of this team combination. Whether they play or not depends on their fitness, desire, and obviously, form. I think this series is very important for assessing their performance. At the end of this series, they themselves will know. How they feel, and then they will decide on their future. "
The Value of Experience
Shastri also drew a parallel with Australia's Steve Smith, who retired from ODI cricket in March, highlighting that at a certain age, enjoying the game and maintaining the drive are paramount. However, he also stressed that there is no substitute for experience in big matches, while he cited instances like the Champions Trophy, where seasoned players step up to win crucial games. Thus, the experience of Rohit and Virat could prove invaluable for the team in high-stakes encounters.
