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

The 2027 World Cup Debate: Experience vs. Youth

As the cricketing world remains gripped by the excitement of the IPL 2026, the long-term horizon is firmly set on one of the sport’s greatest prizes: the ICC Men’s ODI Cricket World Cup 2027. With the tournament set to be co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, the spotlight is shifting toward the composition of the Indian squad. Among the many questions being asked, one stands out: Is there still a place for the legendary duo of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma?

The 2027 edition promises to be a massive affair, featuring 14 teams and 54 matches across three nations. It marks a historic moment, particularly for Namibia, which will host matches for the first time, while South Africa and Zimbabwe return as co-hosts for the first time since 2003. Amidst this backdrop, former Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan has provided his perspective on the veteran stars.

Shikhar Dhawan’s Clear Verdict

Shikhar Dhawan, known for his keen eye on the game, believes that the selection committee should absolutely keep Kohli and Rohit in their long-term plans. Speaking on the necessity of wisdom in high-pressure scenarios, Dhawan remarked, "Kohli & Rohit can – and they should play. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli both are experienced – you need experience going into the ODI WC, which is only a year away."

Dhawan’s argument hinges on the idea that big-tournament cricket is not just about raw athleticism; it is about game awareness, composure, and the ability to steer a team through challenging phases—traits that both Kohli and Rohit have mastered over their illustrious careers.

Current Form and Fitness Concerns

While the sentiment for their inclusion is strong, the reality of the modern cricket calendar presents challenges. Both players have retired from Test cricket this year, leading to fewer ODI appearances. By the time 2027 arrives, Rohit Sharma will be in his 40s, while Virat Kohli will be in his late 30s. Consequently, fitness and workload management will be the primary metrics for the selectors.

However, recent performance data suggests they have plenty left in the tank:

• Virat Kohli: His ODI form has been nothing short of extraordinary. In the lead-up to the IPL 2026, he averaged 80.00 against New Zealand and an incredible 151.00 during the series against South Africa.
• Rohit Sharma: After a difficult series against the Black Caps, Rohit showed his resilience by scoring 146 runs in three innings against South Africa, proving he can still dominate bowling attacks.

Performance in IPL 2026

The ongoing IPL season has provided further insights into their current physical state. Virat Kohli has been in scintillating form, scoring 351 runs in 8 innings at a strike rate of 162.50. His consistency remains a hallmark of his game. Rohit Sharma, while having faced a recent setback due to a hamstring injury sustained against RCB on April 12, has shown flashes of his usual aggressive style. His fitness, however, will be the most critical factor that the BCCI medical team monitors moving forward.

What Lies Ahead?

The road to 2027 is still long, and the upcoming ODI series against Afghanistan post-IPL 2026 will serve as a significant litmus test for both veterans. If they continue to maintain their fitness and perform at these high standards, the selectors may find it impossible to ignore the sheer value of their presence in the dressing room. Whether or not they make the final cut, the debate serves as a reminder of the immense legacy these two champions have built over the last decade.

As the cricket fraternity waits for the official squad announcements in the coming years, one thing is certain: a World Cup without the presence of such seasoned leaders would feel incomplete. For now, the fans can only wait to see if these legends will have one more opportunity to bring the trophy home.