The future of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in India’s One Day International (ODI) team is under serious question, with reports suggesting the October series against Australia could be their final appearance in the format. While both continue to perform well, they are reportedly not part of India’s 2027 ODI World Cup plans.
Former national selector Devang Gandhi believes it is time to make room for young talent. Speaking to the Times of India, he said players like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant, and Sai Sudharsan have already proven they can adapt and should not be left waiting on the sidelines.
“How will you make players like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant, Sai Sudharsan, among others, sit out when they have shown how well they can adapt?” Gandhi asked. “The bigger transition is from T20s to Tests. Once a player has done well in Test cricket and has the power game, ODIs should come easier to them. It is very important that the selectors and the team management sit together and take a call.”he added.
Though the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has not confirmed anything yet, reports say Virat and Rohit may need to play domestic cricket to keep their ODI careers alive. Gandhi feels this is not a realistic option if the team wants to be fully prepared for the World Cup.
“If, say, in a year’s time, we come to a situation where one of them is not firing and we need a replacement, the team management may not have enough time to prepare a player for the job,” he explained.
Gandhi praised the two stars for their unmatched contributions but stressed that change is inevitable. “There’s absolutely no doubt about the contribution of Rohit and Virat. But time doesn’t wait for anybody,” he said.
Conclusion
If the October series against Australia turns out to be the last ODI outing for Virat and Rohit, it will mark the end of a defining chapter in Indian cricket. The selectors’ next move could set the tone for the team’s journey towards the 2027 World Cup, with a clear push for the next generation to take charge.
