In light of India's recent cricketing developments, former Indian players Sunil Gavaskar and Irfan Pathan have suggested that Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma should participate in domestic cricket to ensure they are match-fit for the 2027 World Cup. This advice comes as Shubman Gill is set to take over as India's new ODI captain, replacing Rohit Sharma, and will also lead in Tests.
The recommendations from Gavaskar and Pathan stem from concerns about Kohli and Sharma's reduced international schedule. Both players have stepped back from T20Is in 2024 and Test cricket in early 2025, limiting their appearances to bilateral ODIs and the IPL T20 tournament. With fewer ODI matches being scheduled, maintaining their game fitness could pose a challenge.
Irfan Pathan emphasized the importance of game-time fitness, stating that "If you are not playing regular cricket, both of them have to ensure some game time. They have to play domestic cricket". He believes that only through regular participation in domestic cricket can they keep their dream of playing in the 2027 World Cup alive.
Sunil Gavaskar specifically pointed to the Vijay Hazare Trophy as a suitable avenue for Kohli and Sharma to maintain match practice. He noted that with Rohit Sharma approaching 40 and Virat Kohli 37 by the time the 2027 World Cup arrives, it may be difficult for the veteran duo to remain in contention for selection unless they participate in domestic cricket. Gavaskar stated, "They will have to play the Vijay Hazare Trophy in India whenever it's scheduled, if it doesn't clash with any international ODI tournaments. That's one way to stay in trim and maintain match practice". He also pointed out that the limited number of ODIs being scheduled may not provide enough exposure or practice for players approaching the latter stages of their careers.
Gavaskar commented on Kohli and Sharma's availability for the Australia tour, suggesting that the high-profile nature of the series, especially after India's loss to Australia in the World Cup final, might have influenced their decision to participate.
The debate around Kohli and Sharma's future in the ODI team highlights the changing landscape of Indian cricket, with younger players like Shubman Gill stepping into leadership roles. Gill is set to begin his ODI captaincy with the upcoming tour of Australia. This transition signifies a new era for Indian cricket, with Gill tasked with carrying forward the legacies of Kohli and Sharma.
