Can Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli Realistically Make It to the 2027 ODI World Cup?

In 2024, Indian cricket fans celebrated a long-awaited moment of glory as the Men in Blue lifted the ICC T20 World Cup after 11 years. The victory was not just a win—it was a fairytale ending for two legends of the game. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, both integral to India’s cricketing renaissance over the past decade, announced their retirement from T20I cricket shortly after the title triumph.

Just months later, in May 2025, both stalwarts also bid farewell to Test cricket, marking the end of an era. While fans processed the emotional exits from two formats, both players made it clear that they weren’t done just yet. They expressed their commitment to continue playing ODIs, with a specific target in mind: the 2027 ICC ODI World Cup.

However, not everyone believes that journey will be smooth or even possible. Former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh recently expressed doubts about their realistic chances of making it to the mega event. Let’s explore why this is a hot topic and what factors will determine whether these two modern greats can indeed wear the India jersey in 2027.

Why Rohit and Virat Still Matter in ODIs

At a time when formats continue to evolve and demand newer skills, both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli remain relevant and effective in the 50-over format.

Virat Kohli, on the other hand, is arguably the best ODI batter of his generation. His run-chasing abilities, fitness levels, and temperament continue to inspire awe.

Their ODI performances over the past two years have remained consistent, with both players scoring crucial runs in major tournaments and bilateral series. For many fans, imagining an Indian ODI team without these two icons feels premature.

The Age Factor: A Harsh Reality?

Despite their legendary status, age remains the biggest obstacle. By the time the 2027 ODI World Cup begins, Virat Kohli will be 38 years old, while Rohit Sharma will be 40. For context, Sachin Tendulkar retired from ODIs at 39, and MS Dhoni played his last ODI at 38.

Although fitness regimes have improved and players are extending their careers more than ever, age catches up—especially in high-pressure tournaments. Harbhajan Singh, in his statement, didn’t doubt their commitment or talent, but questioned whether their bodies can cope with the demands of modern-day ODI cricket in 2027.

“They have done everything possible for Indian cricket. But making it to the 2027 World Cup might be too far-fetched, especially when you look at younger players knocking on the door,” Harbhajan noted.

The Competition: Young Guns Ready to Take Over

India’s bench strength has never looked more promising. A new generation of batters has already started making waves across formats. Players like Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Tilak Varma, and Rinku Singh are proving themselves at every level.

These young cricketers bring more than just talent. They offer:

Better fielding agility

Longer fitness windows

Adaptability to different match scenarios

By 2027, the selectors might prefer building a squad that can evolve with time and sustain itself beyond one tournament. If India aims to develop a long-term white-ball core, it might be difficult to justify the selection of two players pushing 40, no matter how legendary they are.

Will Experience Trump Youth?
That said, ODI World Cups thrive on experience. Teams that go deep into tournaments usually rely on battle-hardened veterans who know how to absorb pressure.

Consider:

Sachin Tendulkar’s 2011 World Cup role at age 37

MS Dhoni’s calmness in 2019, despite declining power

Kumar Sangakkara’s peak in his late 30s

If Rohit and Virat continue performing consistently, stay injury-free, and contribute to team balance, the management might very well include them in the squad for their leadership, game awareness, and psychological edge.

Fitness and Form: The Deciding Factors
The real answer to this debate lies not in predictions but in future performances. Over the next two years, selectors will monitor:

Fitness standards and Yo-Yo test benchmarks

Form in ODIs and domestic List-A tournaments

Strike rates, averages, and match-impact metrics

Ability to field at high standards

Rohit and Virat have so far shown exceptional fitness discipline. Kohli, especially, has set global fitness standards. If they can sustain this till 2027, age may become just a number.

What Do the Fans Think?
Fan sentiment is split. While many feel it’s time to embrace the future and move on, others argue that if India must win a World Cup, they need to retain their best ODI players, regardless of age.

On social media, hashtags like #OneLastDance and #RoadTo2027 already trend when either of the two stars plays an ODI knock. Clearly, the emotional connection remains strong, but selectors will have to balance emotion with logic.

Conclusion: A Long Road Ahead
The 2027 ODI World Cup may seem far away, but the journey toward it has already begun. Yet, the road to 2027 is steep and uncertain. With age not on their side, intense competition, and evolving team dynamics, both stars will have to work harder than ever before to keep their dreams alive. But if anyone has the resilience, discipline, and hunger to beat the odds, it’s Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.

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