India's Gambhir Tightlipped About World Cup Hopes of Kohli and Rohit

New Delhi: As India looks ahead to the 2027 ODI World Cup, the future participation of veteran batsmen Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma remains uncertain, with head coach Gautam Gambhir offering a cautious perspective. While acknowledging their undeniable talent and experience, Gambhir has refrained from guaranteeing their place in the squad, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the present.

Speaking at a press conference following India's 2-0 Test series victory against the West Indies, Gambhir addressed questions about Kohli and Rohit's potential involvement in the 2027 World Cup, which will be held in South Africa. "The 50-over World Cup is still two and a half years away," Gambhir stated. "I think it is very important to stay in the present. That is something which is very important".

Kohli and Rohit, who have both retired from Test and T20I cricket, are set to return to the Indian side for the upcoming ODI series against Australia. This series marks their first international appearance since the Champions Trophy earlier this year. While their experience is expected to be valuable, Gambhir stressed that consistent performance and fitness would be the determining factors in their selection for the 2027 World Cup.

"Obviously, they are quality players, and their experience will be invaluable in Australia," Gambhir said. "Hopefully, both will have a successful tour in Australia". He added, "With the 2027 World Cup still 2.5 years away, it's important to stay focused on the present".

Gambhir's remarks echo those of chief selector Ajit Agarkar, who earlier this month also avoided confirming whether Kohli and Rohit were part of India's long-term ODI plans. While both players have been included in the squad for the Australia series, their future beyond that remains uncertain.

The emergence of Shubman Gill as captain of both the Test and ODI sides signals a transition phase in Indian cricket. With Kohli and Rohit set to be 39 and 40 years old respectively by the time the 2027 World Cup arrives, questions have been raised about their place in India's long-term strategy.

Gill himself has spoken highly of Kohli and Rohit, acknowledging their immense experience and the value they bring to the team. "They are people who have won so many matches in the past," Gill said. "They have been playing for India for the past 10–15 years; the experience they bring to the table is something every captain and every team wants".

The upcoming ODI series against Australia will provide a crucial opportunity for Kohli and Rohit to demonstrate their continued relevance to the Indian team. Their performance in these matches, as well as subsequent ODI series against South Africa and New Zealand, will likely play a significant role in determining their chances of representing India at the 2027 World Cup.

Ultimately, the decision on whether to include Kohli and Rohit in the 2027 World Cup squad will depend on a combination of factors, including their form, fitness, and the emergence of other potential candidates. While Gambhir remains tightlipped about their long-term prospects, he has made it clear that the focus for now is on the present and the upcoming tour of Australia.