Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma team up, pick weapons to destroy Gautam Gambhir-Ajit Agarkar nexus

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have been under pressure as questions continue to surface about their long-term roles in the one-day setup. With both having stepped away from Tests and T20Is, their performances in the upcoming matches could play a major part in shaping India’s plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup.

South Africa beat India in the two-match Test series before the ODI contests beginning on Sunday, November 30, in Ranchi. The home team will be hoping to bounce back, and Rohit and Virat will be crucial in the limited-overs matches, especially given their reputations as two of the finest white-ball players of their era.

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli Last Seen in Action in Australia

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will want to make a strong impact in the ODI series against South Africa. India lost 1-2 in the recent ODI series in Australia, where Rohit scored more than 200 runs, including a brilliant unbeaten century in the final match.

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Meanwhile, Virat Kohli had a tough start with two ducks but came back well by scoring an unbeaten 74 in the last game. The duo also added an undefeated 168-run partnership in the third ODI, where India secured the victory.

Before that series, there had been a lot of talk about their future in ODI cricket. Since they play only this format and are in their late 30s, many wondered whether they would stay motivated. Some even thought they might retire after the Australia tour.

However, their performances silenced those rumours. Rohit looked fit and confident, while Kohli found form just when he needed it. As India prepares to face South Africa, both players will hope to continue scoring runs and help the team win.

Ajit Agarkar and Gautam Gambhir Stay Non-Committal on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s Future

According to The Times of India, the challenges ahead for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are not limited to form or fitness. The two senior batters will also have to block out speculation, deal with constant questions from the selection committee, and ensure they retain the confidence of the coaching staff and the BCCI.

The report added that it is surprising players of their stature even have to worry about such matters, given how dominant they have been in ODIs for more than a decade. However, the uncertainty around their future has made them more cautious.

Chief selector Ajit Agarkar and head coach Gautam Gambhir have repeatedly been asked about Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli during press conferences, yet neither has offered a clear assurance. Their consistent response has been that the 2027 ODI World Cup is still over two years away.

There Can Be Younger Players Who Will Take the Spot - Ajit Agarkar

At the NDTV World Summit 2025, Ajit Agarkar said that while Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are currently part of the squad and remain outstanding players, it is too early to make any promises about their place in the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Agarkar stated that the team must stay open to younger options that may emerge over the next two years. He added that decisions will not be based only on big scores or individual milestones. The former cricketer said the focus will be on what helps India win major tournaments.

"They are part of the squad at the moment in Australia. They are incredible players, but it is not the forum to harp on about individual players. Two years from now, it is difficult to say what the situation will be. Who knows, there can be younger players who will take the spot," Agarkar had said at the NDTV World Summit 2025.

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