Shikhar Dhawan backs Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli for ICC ODI World Cup 2027 amid age concerns

Former Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan recently shared his views on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for the ICC ODI World Cup 2027. Dhawan stated that both veteran batters still offer immense value and leadership, especially in high-pressure global events where experience often proves decisive for team success.

Rohit and Virat retired from Test cricket in May last year. With fewer One Day Internationals scheduled each year, there have been concerns about whether limited match exposure could impact their fitness levels, consistency, and long-term performance as they move closer toward the upcoming ODI World Cup.

Shikhar Dhawan Backs Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for ICC World Cup 2027

When the World Cup takes place across South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, Rohit Sharma will be 40, while Virat Kohli will be 38. Shikhar Dhawan dismissed concerns about age and added that their experience is valuable for the team.

"Of course they can, and they should play. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli both are experienced, and you need experience going into the ODI WC, which is only a year away," Dhawan told ANI.

After the successful Champions Trophy 2025 campaign, the Indian management began a leadership transition. Shubman Gill replaced Rohit Sharma as ODI captain, raising speculation about whether Rohit and Kohli could be phased out before 2027.

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Virat Kohli Eye 2027 World Cup with Mixed Recent Form

Despite retiring from Test matches and T20 Internationals, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma remain clear about their intention to play in the 2027 Cricket World Cup. Both senior batters continue to focus fully on One Day Internationals and have shown strong form in the format.

Virat Kohli produced an outstanding ODI series against New Zealand in January, scoring 240 in three ODIs at an average of 80 and a strike rate above 105. His performances answered questions about his form and age, as he maintained consistency throughout the series.

On the other hand, Rohit Sharma faced a slight dip after strong performances against Australia and South Africa. In the three-match series against New Zealand, he averaged 20.33, showing a brief drop in form.

Shikhar Dhawan Praises Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Amid IPL 2026

During the same discussion, Shikhar Dhawan praised Rajasthan Royals (RR) youngster Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for his fearless batting. He stated that the young batter handles high pace, showing no hesitation against top bowlers consistently clocking speeds above 145 kmph.

"Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is doing extremely well. I am very impressed by him. The way he is taking on bowlers easily when they are bowling him at 145 kmph, it's fantastic, and the day is not far when he will debut for India," Dhawan said.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is enjoying an outstanding IPL 2026 season for Rajasthan Royals. He currently leads the Orange Cap race with 400 runs in nine matches at an average of 44.44 and a strike rate of 238.10, including one century and two half-centuries.

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