Former India batsman Ajinkya Rahane has thrown his weight behind Rohit Sharma, backing him to feature in the 2027 World Cup amid doubts over his age and fitness.
Ever since Rohit was replaced by Shubman Gill as the ODI captain a year ago, there have been questions about whether he could last until the World Cup in Africa next year, an event in which Rohit has expressed his desire to feature.
When and where is the World Cup 2027?
The World Cup 2027 will be hosted in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia in October-November 2027. After the ICC unveiled the new format for the tournament, any team reaching the semi-finals will be playing 11 matches, and the teams making it to the final will feature in 13 games.
Rohit has clearly made lots of progress in terms of fitness, making his body leaner to combat the slowness that comes with aging. The senior India opener is currently 39 years of age and will be well beyond his 40th birthday when the World Cup rolls around.
Rahane, though, is confident that Rohit will survive till the World Cup 2027, as the former captain keeps alive the hopes of lifting the ODI World Cup trophy.
“I think it is important to tell Rohit Sharma he is going to play the 2027 ODI World Cup. Just look at his contribution over several years. It has been amazing. You need the experience of such a player at a World Cup. There should be no discussions around it,” Rahane told The Indian Express.
Can’t look at it series by series because Rohit Sharma is such a big player”: Rahane
There was a huge clamor during the ODI series against England last month. Then, multiple reports suggested that the selectors have informed Rohit that he isn’t part of their plans for the World Cup and the opener could potentially retire after the 3rd ODI, having managed scores of only 11 and 26 in the first two ODIs.
Rohit responded to those rumors by blasting 138 off 110 balls at the Lord’s, thus shutting down the debate over his form and longevity.
Rahane reckoned Rohit’s experience and quality are too good to be ignored and that he should be part of the 2027 World Cup.
“You can’t look at it series by series because he is such a big player. Cricket is a game of rhythm, whether you are a youngster or an experienced player. There is no need to talk about his quality. There should be no debate. If he wants to play the 2027 World Cup, he should play. You can’t doubt his intensity and attitude. Performances can go up and down, but his experience could be useful in crucial matches.”
When is India’s next ODI series?
India’s next ODI series is against the West Indies. Starting September 27, India will be hosting the West Indies in a three-match ODI series, while New Zealand will host India in a five-ODI series in November.
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