Will Shastri's Insights Guide Rohit and Kohli in 2027 WC?
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Synopsis
As the ODI series against Australia approaches, former coach Ravi Shastri emphasizes the significance of this series for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Their performance could determine their places in the 2027 World Cup. Read on to find out why this series is crucial for the veteran players.
Key Takeaways
- Ravi Shastri emphasizes the importance of form and fitness for veteran players.
- The ODI series against Australia is critical for Kohli and Rohit.
- Experience is invaluable in high-stakes matches.
- The series will impact their future in international cricket.
- India aims to improve on past performances against Australia.
Sydney, Oct 13 (NationPress) Former India coach Ravi Shastri asserts that the forthcoming ODI series in Australia poses a significant test for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma as they aim to secure their places in another World Cup. The experienced pair must deliver a strong performance against Australia to reinforce their positions for the grand event in 2027.
Kohli and Rohit, who have concluded their careers in Tests and T20Is, have been selected for India's squad for the ODI series commencing on October 19 in Perth. They are expected to join the team on October 15, ahead of the three-match series.
With the ODI World Cup two years away and both players, aged 36 and 38, not in their prime form, doubts regarding their future linger.
During the launch of the Summer of Cricket in Sydney, Shastri was questioned about their chances of being part of the tournament in 24 months. He remarked, "That's why they're here (in the ODI series against Australia). Their inclusion depends on their fitness, hunger, and, of course, form."
"This series is crucial to evaluate their performance. They will determine their future based on this series. The same applies to Steve Smith from Australia's perspective. At their age, enjoying the game and maintaining that hunger is essential.
However, experience plays a vital role in crucial matches, as demonstrated in the Champions Trophy. When the stakes are high, the seasoned players rise to the occasion," he added.
Rohit has made a trip to the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru for batting and fitness training, while Kohli is preparing in London.
As Australia gears up to host India for three ODIs followed by five T20Is, the renowned duo of “RoKo” are set to make their return.
India's white-ball tour of Australia, led by new captain Shubman Gill, kicks off with the ODI series opener on October 19 at Perth Stadium, followed by matches at Adelaide Oval and Sydney Cricket Ground on October 23 and 25, respectively. This will be succeeded by a five-match T20I series starting on October 29.
On their last bilateral ODI series tour to Australia, India lost 2-1 in 2020/21 but subsequently won the T20I series by the same margin.
Point of View
It's crucial to acknowledge the impact of experience in sports. Ravi Shastri's commentary on Kohli and Rohit's fitness and form reflects a broader concern in cricket regarding aging players. The upcoming ODI series is not just a game; it's a litmus test for their careers and India's aspirations in the 2027 World Cup.
NationPress
13/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Ravi Shastri say about Kohli and Rohit's future?
Ravi Shastri believes that their inclusion in the 2027 World Cup depends on their fitness, form, and hunger during the upcoming ODI series against Australia.
What is the schedule for India's tour in Australia?
India's tour includes three ODIs starting from October 19, followed by five T20Is beginning October 29.
Why is the ODI series crucial for Kohli and Rohit?
Their performance in this series will determine their positions in the national team and their potential inclusion in the 2027 World Cup.
