What Gautam Gambhir Said About Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s 2027 ODI World Cup Ambition: Performance Is the Key

Gautam Gambhir has clearly stated that Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s inclusion in India’s 2027 ODI World Cup squad will depend entirely on their performance. Despite rumors of their possible retirement after the upcoming Australia series in October 2025, Gambhir emphasized that age is just a number if they keep performing well. Both players can extend their careers through strong displays in domestic tournaments like the Vijay Hazare Trophy, keeping their World Cup ambitions alive.

Gautam Gambhir’s Clear Message on Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s 2027 ODI World Cup Ambition

As speculation heats up about Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s future in One Day Internationals (ODIs), India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir has given a straightforward answer regarding their chances of playing in the 2027 ODI World Cup. Known for his honest views, Gambhir emphasized that only consistent performance will decide whether these iconic players continue to feature in the team.

Before the Indian team’s tour of England, Gambhir was asked if Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma would be part of India’s plans for the 2027 World Cup. He responded by stressing that while the T20 World Cup in 2026 is India’s next big tournament, selection for the 2027 ODI World Cup will depend on merit and form. “If you keep performing, age is just a number,” Gambhir told CNN-News18.

India is scheduled to play a three-match ODI series against Australia in October 2025, followed by a series against South Africa. Rumors are rife that this Australia series could be the last ODI for both Kohli and Rohit, as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) reportedly looks to build a younger squad in preparation for the 2027 World Cup.

Despite these rumors, Gambhir made it clear that performance, not age or seniority, will be the deciding factor for selection. Both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma could prolong their international careers if they maintain good form, especially through domestic competitions like the Vijay Hazare Trophy and India A matches, which provide important platforms to showcase fitness and readiness.

In addition to performance, selectors will also consider team balance and the need to nurture fresh talent for the future. Still, Gambhir’s message is unambiguous: legends like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will continue only if they prove themselves on the field.

Implications for Kohli and Rohit’s ODI Careers

Gambhir’s statement sends a strong message that respect for past achievements cannot guarantee future spots. The 2027 ODI World Cup ambitions of both players depend on their form and fitness in the coming years. The upcoming series and domestic tournaments are crucial opportunities for them to prove their worth.

For fans and critics alike, this means focusing on the players’ current performances rather than speculation. Regardless of their future, both have already secured their places in cricket history, but their ODI careers can only continue if they deliver consistent performances.

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