Why Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma deserve to play the 2027 ODI World Cup
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma may retire from ODIs after the Australia tour in October, as reported in the media earlier. However, the BCCI should support their decision to continue playing if they wish, keeping in mind the 2027 World Cup, where their presence could be instrumental for India.
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There are reports that Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma might retire from ODIs after the Australia tour later this year. Fans are worried because these two have been the pillars of Indian cricket for more than a decade. But maybe it is not the right time to say goodbye yet. Both of them still have a lot to give to Indian cricket, especially in the 2027 ODI World Cup. Reuters
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Kohli and Rohit’s friendship has grown over the years. They started as young players in the same team and now are legends of the game. On the field, they have shared so many partnerships and match-winning moments. This bond is something that helps India in big matches, especially in ODI cricket. Reuters
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When it comes to records, both are unmatched in modern cricket. Virat Kohli has scored the most centuries in ODIs in the world - 51, and Rohit Sharma holds the record for the highest individual score in the format - 264. These are not just normal stats, they are proof of how dangerous they can be even today. Reuters
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In big ICC tournaments, both Rohit and Kohli have always stepped up. Rohit’s record five hundreds in the 2019 ODI World Cup in England and Kohli’s consistency in the 2023 ODI World Cup in India are still fresh in everyone’s memory. Their experience in knockout matches is priceless as fans would remember their heroics from the 2024 T20 World Cup. Reuters
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Rohit scored big runs in the semifinal of the 2024 T20 World Cup against Australia, while Kohli came good in the final with some crucial runs at the top. This helped India win the coveted trophy after 17 years. They also guided India to victory in the ICC Champions Trophy earlier this year, where they once again scored big runs. Reuters
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India will have many young players in 2027, but they will need senior players to guide them. Kohli and Rohit have mentored so many youngsters over the years and their presence in such a big event will only provide confidence to their teammates. Having them in the dressing room during a World Cup will be a big boost for the entire team. Reuters
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Both players are also crowd pullers. Their presence in the 2027 ODI World Cup will not only boost India’s chances but also make the tournament more exciting for cricket lovers everywhere. Kohli, in particular, commands a massive fan base and has the ability to fill stadiums on his own. With the tournament set to be held in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, the ICC would hope for all superstars to participate to give them the best chance of promoting the game and making it a success. Reuters
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Their retirement is inevitable, as they have already stepped down from Tests and T20Is. However, they still deserve a chance to call time on their careers themselves given their contributions to Indian cricket and the world game. The BCCI must definitely give them an opportunity should they choose not to retire before the 2027 World Cup. Reuters


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