as a roadmap for 2027 ICC ODI World Cup The future of India’s great legends started taking shape, Rohit Sharma And Virat KohliCricket has become a central topic in the world. With the legendary pair moving away from T20Is and Test matches (retiring from the longest format in May 2025), they are now exclusively committed to the 50-over game. While debate continues about his age and longevity, none other than ms dhoni has proceeded to offer a masterclass in perspective of their participation in the next global showpiece.
MS Dhoni ponders Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli’s possible 2027 ODI World Cup appearances
During a high-profile conversation with the popular commentator Jatin Sapru On February 4, 2026, Dhoni silenced the critics who were relying too much on the age factor. The former World Cup-winning captain stressed that a player’s birth certificate should never be the primary tool for selection.
“Is age a factor? No. Is fitness a factor? Yes, fitness is a factor. Even if you’re 22, if you’re not fit, you shouldn’t be there; There are criteria for playing international cricket. When it comes to whether it is Rohit, Virat or other names who will emerge in three, five or ten years, the whole point is this: just because someone is 30, it is not our job to decide whether he can play the next World Cup or not. This is for them to decide. If they keep performing and have the desire to do good for the country, then why not?Dhoni said emphatically.
Dhoni argued that if a player – whether 24 or 38 – maintains elite fitness and continues to put in match-winning performances, he has earned the right to decide on his departure. He highlighted an important, often overlooked element: experience. Dhoni said that high-pressure situations, especially in the World Cup, require a level of emotional control that only comes from playing 80 to 85 high-risk games.
“You can’t find a 20 year old experienced player unless it is Sachin Tendulkar” Dhoni commented, adding that the intelligence of those over the age of 30 is key to taming the heart and handling the pump of death-over pressure. His stance serves as a gentle reminder to the BCCI and the selectors that replacing class with youth prematurely can often backfire on the world stage.
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Recent form of Kohli and Rohit in ODI
The statistical output of both players in the 2025-26 cycle provides a compelling case for Dhoni’s argument. Instead of fading, Kohli has reached another peak. Kohli has performed brilliantly in his last nine ODI matches. 616 runs on average 88.00Which includes three centuries and three half-centuries. His dominance was most visible during the series against South AfricaWhere he proved by scoring two centuries that his hunger for the game is still insatiable.
On the other hand, Rohit was recently honored padmashree 2026There remains a strength at the top of the order. Despite weak performance in the January series new zealand While he managed just 61 runs, his overall 2025 calendar year was remarkable. Rohit scored runs 650 runs At an average of 50.00, matching Kohli blow-for-blow and giving India the lead icc champions trophy 2025 Victory.
Both players have also actively participated in domestic cricket Vijay Hazare Trophy To be ready for the match. With Kohli currently claiming an ICC ranking in the top five and Rohit reaching the milestone of 20,000 international runs, their recent form suggests that if the 2027 World Cup is held today, they won’t just be participants, they will be India’s biggest match-winner.
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