Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli told performances in Vijay Hazare Trophy mean nothing for 2027 World Cup

Former Australia captain Aaron Finch opened up about Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli being asked to play domestic cricket to secure spots for the ODI World Cup 2027. Finch said that domestic games wouldn’t impact their chances, as their selection will depend on their commitment, desire, and performance.

Team India will face Australia in a three-match ODI series starting Sunday, October 19, in Perth. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli returned to the Men in Blue after a seven-month hiatus from international cricket. Young opener Shubman Gill will lead the Indian cricket team in the 50-over format for the first time.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma Currently Active Only in ODIs

With Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma currently active only in ODIs, there was speculation that the senior duo might feature in the India ‘A’ squad for the unofficial three-match series against Australia ‘A’. However, they were not included in the squad.

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Neither player has featured in competitive cricket since the conclusion of IPL 2025. Their long break has raised questions about their readiness when they return to international action.

Some experts and fans believe the experienced batters should play domestic cricket to maintain rhythm and match readiness. Reports indicate that selectors may ask them to participate in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy as preparation ahead of the home ODI series against New Zealand in early 2026.

Don't Think That Would Change Their Chances - Aaron Finch

Aaron Finch stated that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s inclusion in the World Cup should not be impacted by playing domestic cricket. Speaking to Hindustan Times ahead of the first ODI, Finch said that a few domestic games could only help them stay match-ready.

"I don't think it necessarily comes down to playing so much domestic cricket. I don't think that would change their chances or the way they approach it at all. The odd game here or there, just to make sure that they're ticking over in a competitive environment," said JioStar expert Finch.

"But you know that they're going to be hitting thousands and thousands of balls behind the scenes, away from the cameras. So, yeah, if the desire is still there, and if the performances are there, there's no reason why they won't," he added.

Would Love to See Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli - Aaron Finch

Aaron Finch said that he would love to see Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the ODI World Cup. He emphasized that their selection would depend on their performances, decisions by the team management, and their own commitment.

“I would love to see them both play in that 50-over World Cup in 2027. That'll be up to the selectors, the coaching staff, the captain and their performances. That's what it comes down to."

"I think that any time you have the experience that they bring, but are also pushed by the next generation of players coming through, it's really exciting because it keeps the depth of the squad so strong. And no doubt India have got that,” said Finch.

Also read: PCB breaks silence as Afghanistan pull out of Tri-series following cricketers’ deaths in brutal airstrikes