New Zealand’s stand-in ODI captain Michael Bracewell has spoken openly about the participation of Team India stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the 2027 World Cup. The all-rounder said it would be a mistake to underestimate the senior batsmen and supported their inclusion in the next edition of the World Cup.
India will take on New Zealand in the three-match ODI series starting on Sunday, January 11 in Vadodara. The remaining matches of the series will be played in Rajkot on 14 January and Indore on 18 January. Rohit and Virat Kohli were last seen in action during the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where they scored centuries.
I want to see Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli play in the World Cup – Michael Bracewell
Michael Bracewell said that it would be foolish to underestimate Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in ODIs. He said that both are still performing at a high level and deserve to be a part of the next ODI World Cup.
“I want to see them (Rohit and Virat Kohli) play in the World Cup. They are obviously still playing very good cricket, so there is no reason to stop,” Bracewell told the media on the sidelines of New Zealand Cricket Golf Day, as quoted by TOI.
He said, “They are both playing brilliantly, so why not? Their records speak for themselves individually and as a team. They have been in some great Indian teams and have led that team with the bat. You would be foolish to underestimate them, that’s for sure.”
There’s always an amazing crowd here – Michael Bracewell
Michael Bracewell will lead New Zealand in the series in the absence of many senior players. With key names missing from the team, he will have to guide a relatively new group.
Bracewell said the team always enjoys touring India because of the crowds and deep love of cricket. He said fans continue to support good cricket from both sides, which he feels is rare in many parts of the world.
“Whenever we come to India, there are always amazing crowds and one of the things that stands out to me is the love for cricket,” Bracewell said.
“I think we get support even when we are performing well, which is a bit rare when you go to some (other) places in the world. It’s always a pleasure to come here and play cricket and test yourself against some of the best players in the world,” he said.
You’ll always have to fight to take their place – Michael Bracewell
Michael Bracewell admitted that the lack of senior players had made the tour more challenging. He said that it is impossible to replace players of the quality of Mitchell Santner. Bracewell said the focus now is on making sure the rest of the team plays their roles well.
“It’s a difficult job. Whenever you’re missing players of Mitch Santner’s calibre, you’re always going to be struggling to replace him. So, you’re asking guys to come in and play their role as best they can,” Bracewell said.
Bracewell said, “You’ll never be able to replace a guy like him. But if everyone gets involved and contributes, hopefully we can all work together and achieve great things on this Tour.”
