Anil Kumble drops bombshell on Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli’s 2027 World Cup plans — ‘In their heads…’

After Ravi Shastri, former India captain and coach Anil Kumble has reignited the discussion over Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's chances of featuring in the 2027 ODI World Cup, scheduled to be held in South Africa and Namibia.

With Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma having stepped away from Tests and T20Is, ODIs now remain their only active international format. Both legends are eyeing one final shot at glory in the 2027 World Cup, set to take place in southern Africa. However, with the tournament still two years away, their recent dip in form has raised questions about their consistency and longevity.


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"Let's just celebrate the two players on the field. They have done so much for Indian cricket over the years," Kumble said on JioHotstar.

"You don't know if… yes, in their heads, they have been thinking of 2027 (World Cup), but it’s still a couple of years from now.

"There are matches ahead; all they need to do is go out there and enjoy themselves. Now that Rohit is no longer the captain, the burden and responsibility of leadership are off his shoulders.

"So, it’s just about batting and enjoying every moment they have on the field. I don’t think they need to think too far ahead in terms of 2027.

"Both these guys have the experience; ideally, you’d want them to be part of the line-up, but it’s better to take things year by year."

Kohli and Sharma are part of India’s 15-man ODI squad that faces Australia in three matches in Perth, Adelaide, and Sydney on October 19, 23, and 25.

Maintaining match fitness could prove difficult for Kohli and Sharma, considering the amount of international cricket they’ve opted out of and the limited opportunities available in the T20 circuit.

Despite these challenges, both veterans performed well during India’s triumphant Champions Trophy campaign. However, neither has featured in an international match since the final on March 9.


"They just need to do what’s required to prepare for ODIs six months down the line — that’s going to be the challenge.

"They would want to play until the 2027 World Cup and win it — something that didn’t happen in 2023, with Australia lifting the trophy.

"But like I said, these two players have been champions, and Australia will turn up in numbers to watch them play," Kumble added.

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