Amidst talk of the ODI future of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, former India batsman Mohammed Kaif has spoken out against the former, asserting that his experience will be important if India are to compete in the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.The debate over Rohit and Virat’s place in India’s World Cup preparations has grown in recent weeks, with media reports surrounding reports that one or both of the top batsmen could be axed ahead of the marquee tournament. However, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia recently rubbished rumors that the third ODI against England at Lord’s would be Rohit’s last appearance.Speaking on Cricbuzz, Kaif said that India cannot afford to ignore Rohit and Virat’s experience, especially considering what is expected in South Africa.
India will need Rohit and Virat in South Africa
Kaif said the 2027 World Cup will have a very different set of challenges from previous editions, which makes the presence of experienced campaigners essential.“The 2027 season 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 pitches, and India will need all these players there. We want them to play as many games as possible from now on and stay in good shape,” said Mohammed Kaif.
Comparison of Lionel Messi
Kaif compared the importance of Rohit and Virat to that of football legend Lionel Messi, saying the experienced players contribute more than just scoring or scoring goals.“Lionel Messi is 39 years old and his team has reached the final of the FIFA World Cup. He didn’t make a decision in the semifinal but he gave support. This is what it brings. When you have young players who can complete the job, experienced players know how to lead them and create opportunities, so like Messi and Argentina, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are in India in the World Cup” he added. The former Indian batsman added that the importance of knowledge remains the same in all sports.“Whether it’s football or cricket, conditioning plays a big role. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are considered to be great ODI players, so India will need them 100 percent, especially under captain Shubman Gill in South African conditions,” said Kaif.
