Amid growing speculation over the ODI futures of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, former India batsman Mohammed Kaif has thrown his weight behind the veteran duo, insisting their experience will be crucial if India are to challenge for the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.The debate over Rohit and Virat’s places in India’s World Cup plans has intensified in recent weeks, with social media abuzz over reports suggesting one or both senior batsmen could be dropped ahead of the marquee tournament. However, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia played down rumors that the third ODI against England at Lord’s would be Rohit’s final appearance in the format.Speaking on Cricbuzz, Kaif said that India cannot afford to overlook the experience of Rohit and Virat, especially considering the conditions expected in South Africa.
“India will need Rohit and Virat in South Africa”
Kaif said the 2027 World Cup will present a completely different challenge from previous editions, making the presence of experienced campaigners invaluable.“The phase of 2027 will be very important. People are talking about Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma because it will not be an easy World Cup. The conditions will be different, there will be bouncy roads, and India will need these two players there. We would definitely like to play as many matches as possible from now on and stay in good shape,” said Mohammed Kaif.
Draw Lionel Messi comparisons
Kaif compared the importance of Rohit and Virat to that of football legend Lionel Messi, saying the experienced players often contribute beyond just scoring runs or goals.“Lionel Messi is 39 years old and his team reached the finals of the FIFA World Cup. He did not score in the semi-finals, but he provided an assistant. That is what experience brings. When you have younger players who can finish the job, experienced players know how to lead and create opportunities, just like Messi is for Argentina, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are added for India in the World Cup. The former Indian batsman added that the value of experience remains the same in all sports.“Be it football or cricket, experience plays a huge role. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are considered among the greatest ODI players, so India needs 100 percent, especially under captain Shubman Gill in South African conditions,” concludes Kaif.