As plans for the 2027 ICC ODI World Cup begin to unfold, discussions about the future of India’s experienced players, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, have taken center stage. Both players have stepped back from T20Is and Test matches, with their Test careers ending in May 2025, and are now focused solely on the 50-over format. While there are ongoing debates about their age and future, MS Dhoni has offered a perspective on their potential roles in the upcoming World Cup.
MS Dhoni discusses Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s chances for 2027 ODI World Cup
In a conversation with commentator Jatin Sapru on February 4, 2026, Dhoni confronted critics who emphasize age as a deciding factor. He pointed out that fitness, not age, should determine player selection.
“Is age a factor? No. Is fitness a factor? Yes, fitness is a factor. Even if you’re 22, if you’re not fit, you shouldn’t be there. Criteria for playing International Cricket exist. Whether it’s Rohit, Virat, or others who may emerge in the future, it’s their performance and desire to excel that matter, not their age.,” Dhoni expressed.
He stressed that players, regardless of age, should have the autonomy to decide their career trajectory if they remain fit and continue to perform. Dhoni highlighted the importance of experience, especially in high-pressure situations like World Cups, which require emotional control developed through years of playing significant matches.
“You can’t find a 20-year-old with experience unless it’s someone exceptional like Sachin Tendulkar,” Dhoni noted, underscoring that wisdom from those in their 30s is vital under pressure. His comments serve as a reminder to the BCCI and selectors about the potential pitfalls of prioritizing youth over proven talent.
Kohli and Rohit’s recent ODI performance
The performance statistics for both players in the 2025-26 season support Dhoni’s viewpoint. Kohli has reached a strong form, scoring 616 runs at an average of 88.00 in his last nine ODIs, including three centuries and three fifties. His performance peaked during the series against South Africa, where he hit two centuries, underscoring his ongoing dedication to the game.
Rohit, recently awarded the Padma Shri 2026, remains an impactful player at the top of the order. While he had a challenging series against New Zealand in January with just 61 runs, his overall performance in 2025 was impressive, with 650 runs at an average of 50.00, helping India win the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Both players have also been involved in domestic cricket, participating in the Vijay Hazare Trophy to stay in form. With Kohli holding an ICC ranking in the top five and Rohit achieving the 20,000 international run milestone, their recent performances indicate that if the 2027 World Cup were held now, they would be significant contributors to India’s success.
