Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma: The Journey to 2027 ODI World Cup
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, India’s cricket superstars, have decided to retire from Test cricket. This news came as a surprise to fans all over the world. After winning the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup, they stepped down from T20 Internationals. Now, they are focusing solely on One Day Internationals (ODIs). Their next big target is the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa. But before that, they have their eyes set on the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy.
Challenges on the Horizon
Former Indian cricketer Atul Wassan believes Virat and Rohit will face some tough challenges ahead. He highlights a couple of concerns:
- Not enough ODI matches
- Fitness concerns due to age
Big Challenge: Fewer Matches
Team India will play only 27 ODIs until December 2026. Wassan thinks it will be tough for Virat and Rohit to keep up their form and fitness. The Indian Premier League (IPL) gives them some competitive practice. But it only lasts for two months each year. This might not be enough for the demands of ODI cricket.
Wassan said, “It’s going to be very tough for Virat and Rohit to keep up their fitness levels by just playing in the IPL, which happens for only two months a year.”
He also points out that Virat and Rohit often skip ODIs against teams like Bangladesh and Zimbabwe. This means they play even fewer matches. It makes it harder for them to perform consistently.
Long Breaks Between Games
After the 2025 IPL, Virat and Rohit’s next big challenge is a three-match ODI series against Australia in October. This long break makes people wonder: How will they stay in form? Will they play in domestic tournaments like the Ranji Trophy or Vijay Hazare Trophy to stay ready? The lack of ODI matches, along with their age, could make it hard for them to be at their best for important games.
Getting Ready for 2027
Virat and Rohit need to come up with new plans to tackle these challenges. They must keep up with their fitness routines and practice matches regularly.
Rohit Sharma’s ODI Career
Rohit Sharma has played 273 ODIs. He has scored 11,168 runs with an average of 48.76. He has hit 32 centuries and 55 half-centuries. The loss in the 2023 final against Australia will push him to do even better in the 2027 World Cup.
Virat Kohli’s ODI Career
Virat Kohli has played 302 ODIs. He has scored 14,181 runs with an average of 57.88. He has smashed 51 centuries and 74 half-centuries. His achievements include winning the 2011 ODI World Cup and the Champions Trophy titles in 2013 and 2025. He aims to add another big win in 2027.
