India’s Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli (ANI photo)

Amid growing speculation over the ODI future of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, former India batsman Mohammad Kaif has backed the experienced duo and stressed that their experience will be crucial if India are to challenge for the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.The debate over Rohit and Virat’s place in India’s World Cup plans has intensified in recent weeks, with reports on social media suggesting that one or both of the senior batsmen could be phased out ahead of the marquee tournament. However, BCCI secretary Devjit Saikia recently dismissed rumors that the third ODI against England at Lord’s will be Rohit’s last appearance in the format.Speaking on Cricbuzz, Kaif said that India cannot ignore the experience of Rohit and Virat, especially considering the conditions expected in South Africa.

‘India will need Rohit and Virat in South Africa’

Kaif said the 2027 World Cup will present a completely different challenge compared to previous editions, making the presence of experienced campaigners invaluable.Mohammad Kaif said, “The 2027 phase will be very important. People are talking about Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma because it will not be an easy World Cup. The conditions will be different, there will be bouncy pitches and India will need both of these players there. We would definitely like them to play as many matches as possible from now on and be in good form.”

Lionel Messi comparisons

Kaif compared the importance of Rohit and Virat to football legend Lionel Messi, saying that experienced players often contribute beyond just scoring runs or goals.He said, “Lionel Messi is 39 years old and his team has reached the FIFA World Cup final. He did not score in the semi-finals but provided an assist. That’s what experience brings. When you have young players who can finish the job, experienced players know how to guide them and create opportunities, so just like Messi is for Argentina, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are for India in the World Cup.” The former India batsman said that the value of experience remains the same in all sports.Kaif concluded, “Whether it’s football or cricket, experience plays a huge role. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are considered among the greatest ODI players, so India will need 100 per cent from them, especially in South African conditions under captain Shubman Gill.”