Should Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma Retire at 40? Suryakumar Yadav’s blunt take fuels the debate

Divy Dubey

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Should Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma Retire at 40? Suryakumar Yadav’s blunt take fuels the debate image

(getty)

As Indian cricket navigates a period of transition, the future of veterans Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma has become a hot topic. Both have stepped away from T20Is and Tests, with Rohit recently replaced by Shubman Gill as ODI captain.

With the 2027 World Cup still a couple of years away, fans and pundits are debating how long these seniors can continue at the top level. Amid this backdrop, Indian T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav offered a refreshingly candid perspective on age and performance.

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Suryakumar Yadav stresses that players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma can keep contributing well beyond 40

Speaking at an Express Adda with Anant Goenka and Devendra Pandey, Suryakumar said that players should be judged on performance rather than age. He highlighted James Anderson's ongoing career as an example of how athletes can continue well into their 40s if they remain effective.

"According to me, age is just a number. If you are scoring runs and doing everything your team wants, then it is just a number. I was reading about James Anderson recently. He is 43 now and recently renewed his contract with Lancashire. If you are doing well, it's in your hands how long you want to play," Suryakumar said.

More: Explained: Why BCCI may still drop Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from India’s 2027 ODI World Cup plans

At 35, Suryakumar believes fear and competition, like that from younger players such as Shubman Gill, can be motivating rather than threatening. His focus remains on preparation, performance, and maintaining trust with teammates and leadership.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's future in ODI cricket remains uncertain

Despite stepping back from other formats, both Kohli (36) and Rohit (38) remain in contention for the ODI squad. Head coach Gautam Gambhir has stressed the importance of staying present and focusing on current tours, while chief selector Ajit Agarkar avoided committing to the 2027 World Cup scenario.

More: "Younger players will take the spot" - Did Ajit Agarkar issue warning to Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli?

Suryakumar's comments underscore a broader debate: whether age alone should dictate retirement or if performance, fitness, and motivation are the true markers. For Kohli and Rohit, the decision may ultimately rest on form, team strategy, and personal choice rather than reaching a specific birthday.

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