Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are back in the national team set up after a brief one-month break, as they are all set to take the field in the upcoming ODI series at home against South Africa.
The two Indian stalwarts returned to the national team last month after almost seven months as India faced Australia in a three-match ODI series.
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While India lost the series 2-1, the duo's magnificent batting performance in the final ODI showed that the veterans still have what it takes to play at the highest level.
Sharma scored a brilliant century, while Kohli remained unbeaten on 74 runs as they beat the hosts by nine wickets and restored some pride. Both the supertstars are now retired from the T20 and Test formats in international cricket as they have reached the twilight of their glorious careers.
Questions are being raised on whether the duo will continue to play for another two and compete at the 2027 ODI World Cup, which will be held in South Africa.
READ: KL Rahul to lead India in ODI series against South Africa
Rohit, Virat can surely play World Cup 2027 - Morkel
India's bowling coach Morne Morkel showed optimism while speaking on the chances of the veteran playing at the next World Cup, as the former South Africa bowler revealed one condition that needs to be fulfilled for their participation.
Speaking to reporters, Morkel said: "It’s still a long way away.. They’re quality players. As long as they’re happy to put the hard work in and the fitness, sure. I’ve always believed in experience and to have that experience, you don’t find that anywhere.
"They’ve won trophies, they know how to play big tournaments. So for sure, the World Cup, by all means. I’ve played many games against them. I’ve had sleepless nights, bowling to them. So I know as a bowler what goes through your preparation playing against them. So for me, definitely on board with that (with Kohli and Rohit playing the World Cup)."
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What next for the Indian cricket team?
The Indian team will seek revenge after a 2-0 loss in the Test series as they take on South Africa in the first ODI in Ranchi on Sunday, November 30.
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