The debate over whether Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will feature in the 2027 ODI World Cup just got a dose of clarity from none other than Sourav Ganguly. And his condition couldn’t be simpler: If you perform, you play.
Speaking at an event in Kolkata, the former India captain addressed growing chatter that the upcoming Australia series might be a farewell tour for the two stalwarts. Ganguly wasn’t having any of it.
“I’m not aware of this, can’t comment on that,” Ganguly said. “It’s difficult to say. Whoever does well will play. If they do well, they should continue.”
Ganguly’s statement comes amid media buzz suggesting the BCCI might gradually phase out senior players. A few reports even claimed that if Kohli and Rohit skip the Vijay Hazare Trophy, their chances for 2027 could take a hit.
But Ganguly’s words cut through the speculation. The message is straightforward – form, fitness, and runs on the board will decide who wears the India jersey in the next World Cup, not age or headlines.
Also Read: The BCCI has finally broken its silence on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s ODI careers.
Rumours were flying that the Sydney ODI against Australia might be a farewell match for Kohli and Rohit. However, the BCCI has firmly denied it. Officials have also made it clear that there’s no immediate decision on their ODI future, with the focus now on the Asia Cup and T20 World Cup preparations.
Their ODI tour of Australia kicks off on October 19, with high-voltage clashes lined up in Perth, Adelaide, and Sydney. After the Aussie challenge, the Men in Blue will return home in December for a three-match ODI series against South Africa, setting the stage for an intense cricketing season.
The action won’t slow down in 2026. Team India’s ODI calendar is packed, featuring series against New Zealand, Afghanistan, England, and the West Indies, before circling back for yet another face-off with New Zealand. Each of these contests will be a crucial stepping stone towards building the perfect squad for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
T20 Asia Cup in Dubai, which begins on September 9, Ganguly tipped India as the tournament favourites. He pointed out that the team will arrive fresh and recharged after a much-needed break following their gruelling five-Test battle in England.
Both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have been match-winners for over a decade. But cricket is evolving fast, with younger talents like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, and Ruturaj Gaikwad pushing hard for spots.
For fans, Ganguly’s stance offers hope – if the veterans keep performing, we could still see them on the big stage in 2027. For the players, it’s a reminder that every innings from here on counts double.
