There has been a lot of buzz lately about the future of Indian cricket’s two biggest names, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
With the ODI series against Australia around the corner, discussions have picked up again on whether both should continue till the 2027 World Cup.
But former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has made his opinion very clear. He believes the team still needs them and that India’s rebuilding plans should only start after 2027.
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Why does Mohammad Kaif want Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to stay till 2027 World Cup?
Kaif spoke passionately about his admiration for the two senior players, saying if it were up to him, he would make a bed of flowers for Rohit and Kohli.
“If I had the chance, I would have made a bed of flowers for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. I would have asked them not to leave yet, to wait and continue contributing to Indian cricket.”
He added that both have achieved too much to be sidelined now and that their experience will be crucial in guiding the next generation.
“Right now, the team needs their experience more than ever. Yes, there are young players like Shubman Gill, who is a star for the future, but giving him everything too soon could add unnecessary pressure,” said Kaif.
According to Kaif, India needs their leadership and calm presence. He also noted that while younger players like Shubman Gill are the future, they shouldn’t be burdened too early with massive expectations.
"I would tell Rohit Sharma that he has achieved so much already- as a captain, he has led India to multiple trophies and three finals in three years. I’m a big admirer of his leadership and would love to see him continue guiding the team. His captaincy career started relatively late, around the age of 32, and ended too soon at 36 or 38," said Kaif.
Kaif further explained that Rohit’s captaincy journey was short but highly successful and he should continue to lead the Indian ODI side till 2027 World Cup.
"People keep saying he’s getting older and that it’s time to look at the future, but if a captain is performing well and delivering results, why should age matter? Even if he turns 40 by 2027, I still believe he has what it takes to win another World Cup," Kaif concluded.
When and where will India face Australia in the ODI series?
The three-match ODI series between India and Australia kicks off at the Optus Stadium in Perth on October 19. The second ODI will be played on October 23 at the Adelaide Oval, while the final game will take place at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
After the ODIs, both teams will shift focus to a five-match T20I series, which will serve as early preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup.
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