Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has stressed that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli must play domestic cricket regularly to stay match-ready for the 2027 ODI World Cup. Both stars have retired from Tests and stepped away from T20Is, leaving ODIs as their final international format. Pathan emphasized that consistent game time will be crucial for their form and sharpness.
The topic gained attention after the BCCI announced India’s ODI squad against Australia on October 4. Both Rohit and Kohli returned to the national team after a break since the Champions Trophy, while Shubman Gill was named India’s new ODI captain, marking a generational shift in leadership.
Speaking in a YouTube video, Pathan said, “Rohit has worked hard on his fitness, but there is a difference between regular fitness and match-ready fitness. Since they are not playing T20Is, they need domestic cricket to stay competitive and fit for the World Cup.”
With limited ODIs scheduled before 2027, tournaments like the Vijay Hazare Trophy could provide the crucial match practice they require. Rohit has reportedly lost nearly 10kg in his training program, while Kohli continues to maintain peak fitness and skill readiness. By the 2027 World Cup, Rohit will be 40 and Kohli 38, making age and consistent play important factors.
Cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar also highlighted that domestic cricket could help both stars maintain their competitive edge. Fans are eager to see if Rohit and Kohli can combine experience, fitness, and game time to deliver another memorable chapter in Indian cricket history at the 2027 ODI World Cup.
