Rohit and Kohli's 2027 World Cup Hopes Depend Entirely on Form, Says Ashish Nehra

Former India fast bowler Ashish Nehra believes it is far too early to predict whether veteran stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will take part in the 2027 ODI World Cup, scheduled to be hosted in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.

Both icons stepped away from T20 Internationals following India's World Cup victory in mid-2024, electing to focus exclusively on Test cricket and the 50-over format as they navigate the twilight phase of their international careers.

Addressing questions regarding India's long-term roadmap, Nehra emphasised that looking three years into the future is an impractical exercise for selectors and experts alike, given how rapidly elite sport evolves.

'It is very difficult to say right now whether they will be there in 2027. Three years is a long time in cricket, and everything will depend on their form and physical fitness as time moves forward,' Nehra remarked.

By the time the 2027 showpiece tournament arrives, Indian captain Rohit will be 40 while Kohli will turn 39. Maintaining top-tier fitness and match sharpness over such a lengthy window remains a formidable challenge even for players of their exceptional calibre.

Nehra stressed that the national team management and selection committee should refrain from making definitive calls so far in advance. Instead, he recommended evaluating player workloads and form phase by phase through upcoming assignments.

With major silverware like the ICC Champions Trophy on the horizon, India's immediate priority remains keeping their experienced core sharp while gradually integrating younger talent for the challenges ahead.