Rohit Sharma deserves a place in India’s 2027 World Cup squad: India coach tells Ajit Agarkar

Former Indian batting coach Sanjay Bangar has praised Rohit Sharma for his selflessness amidst the uproar over his future in the ODI side after he was stripped of the captaincy. Bangar insisted that Rohit Sharma still has a big role to play for India, especially in the ICC World Cup 2027.

Rohit was named in the 15-member squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia, starting on October 19 in Perth, with Shubman Gill making his debut as the captain in the 50-over format.

Sanjay Bangar hails Rohit Sharma’s team-first mindset; backs him for ICC World Cup 2027

Ahead of the much-awaited ODI series, Bangar highlighted Rohit’s selfless approach over the years, mentioning how the Indian opener has put the team’s needs above his own and played aggressive cricket in the first 10 overs in ODI cricket.

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The former all-rounder stressed that as long as Rohit maintains his form and fitness, he fully deserves a spot in India's squad for the ICC World Cup 2027 in South Africa.

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Sanjay Bangar was quoted as saying by Star Sports: “Rohit Sharma wanted to set a different template. When India wasn't able to cross the last step in 50-over cricket, he took huge responsibility on himself for how he would bat in the first 10 overs.

He has done a lot of things for the team's benefit. You want to see exceptional performances from Rohit Sharma because, based on the feeling he has conveyed and the interviews we have read, I feel he is still very eager to play till the 2027 World Cup, and if he retains his form and fitness, I feel he fully deserves a place.”

Sanjay Bangar wants Rohit Sharma to continue playing aggressive cricket in ODIs

Meanwhile, Rohit’s record against Australia is outstanding, scoring 2,407 runs in 46 ODIs at an average of 57.30. Overall, the former Indian captain has 1168 runs at 48.76 across 273 ODIs to his name. Well, Bangar believes that Rohit will continue to play aggressively in Australia.

He added, “He will try to play in the same style only because the next World Cup is in South Africa. The Indian team has an opportunity here because they won't get many chances to play in those kinds of conditions. You will see these pacy and bouncy pitches even in South Africa.”

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Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma need to mentor Shubman Gill: Sanjay Bangar

Beyond his batting, Rohit’s presence in the dressing room will be crucial for the new captain, Shubman Gill. The cricket pundit has emphasized that both Rohit and Virat Kohli will play an important part in helping Gill settle into leadership.

The former batting coach reiterated that both Rohit and Kohli will want to make a strong start on the Australia tour because of the stature they have and the way they can contribute. Bangar also feels Rohit has a massive role as a former captain to make a young captain comfortable.

He signed off by saying, “Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will have to give that space to Shubman Gill so that he starts his ODI career as captain, as he has done in tests.”

Notably, Kohli is also making a comeback with the upcoming ODI series in Australia. Neither Rohit nor Virat has played for India since the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 triumph in March.