Ashwin sees ‘no reason’ why Kohli and Rohit shouldn’t play 2027 ODI World Cup
The Longevity Debate: Can Kohli and Rohit Reach 2027?
The conversation surrounding the future of two of India’s greatest cricketers, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, has reached a fever pitch. With the 2027 ODI World Cup scheduled for October-November in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, the age factor has become the primary talking point. By the time the tournament commences, Kohli will be nearing his 39th birthday, while Rohit will have crossed the 40-year mark. Despite these numbers, Ravichandran Ashwin remains optimistic about their continued participation.
The ‘Marriage’ of Player and Management
Ashwin, the seasoned Indian offspinner, has likened the prospect of Kohli and Rohit competing in the 2027 edition to the dynamics of a marriage. According to Ashwin, it is not merely about individual fitness or current form, but rather the synergy between the players and the team management. He notes that if the management is committed to having these legends in the squad, it is entirely possible to utilize their immense experience effectively.
“In my experience of how these things pan out, it’s pretty straightforward: if the management wants both of them at the 50-over World Cup in South Africa, and if there is enough energy around it, it’s very much possible to keep them on the park and utilize their experience,” Ashwin explained. The veteran spinner emphasized that if there is doubt or hesitation from the decision-makers, the players will inevitably find themselves under unnecessary pressure, which could hinder their longevity.
Fitness and Adaptability in the Twilight Years
Ashwin acknowledged that age brings physical challenges that cannot be ignored. He noted that once a player crosses 32, the body’s requirements change drastically. However, he remains confident that with a structured rehabilitation program and a clear objective, these athletes can continue to perform at the highest level. He stressed that adapting to these bodily changes is a critical component for any veteran player looking to extend their international career.
“If there is a proper rehab programme, and there is something that’s constructed around what they want to do, and if there is good vibes from the other half, the players will manage to make it,” he added. Ashwin believes that when players feel backed by the team hierarchy, they are willing to put in double the effort, creating a virtuous cycle of performance and commitment.
Form and Statistical Evidence
The recent performances of both stalwarts support the argument for their inclusion. Since 2025, Kohli and Rohit have occupied the top two spots on India’s ODI run-scorers list. Kohli, in particular, has maintained an elite standard, accumulating 891 runs at an impressive average of 68.53, featuring four centuries and five fifties. Rohit has also contributed significantly, scoring 711 runs at an average of 44.43.
While injury concerns persist—as seen with Rohit’s hamstring issues in the 2026 IPL and Kohli’s current injury sidelining him from the upcoming Afghanistan series—Ashwin remains undeterred. He believes that Rohit’s motivation is fueled by the desire to secure a 50-over World Cup trophy, a missing piece in his illustrious kitbag.
The Strategic Value of Experience
Ultimately, Ashwin argues that India should leverage the immense experience that both men bring to the table, especially for a tournament held in challenging overseas conditions like South Africa. He contends that their presence automatically strengthens the team. As India looks toward the next 20 ODIs leading up to 2027, the focus will likely remain on managing the workload and fitness of these two legends to ensure they remain viable candidates for the squad. As Ashwin aptly put it, the team should extract as much value as possible from such experienced cricketers while they are still in the ranks.
