Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s 2027 World Cup dream in danger, BCCI ready to discuss the future

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, two of Indian cricket’s most iconic and decorated players, may be nearing the end of their journey in international cricket, especially when it comes to the ODI format. With the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup still two years away, questions are being raised about their roles in the future plans of the Indian team. Both players have served Indian cricket with distinction for over a decade, but recent developments suggest that their dream of playing the 2027 World Cup might be in danger. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly preparing to hold serious discussions about the roadmap ahead, particularly with regard to aging stars and the grooming of younger talent.

Rohit Sharma, who captained India in the 2023 World Cup and led the team to the final, remains one of the best white-ball openers in the world. Similarly, Virat Kohli, with over 13,000 ODI runs and numerous records to his name, continues to be one of the finest batsmen in world cricket. However, both players are now in their late 30s. Age and workload management have become increasingly important factors in modern cricket, and selectors are keen to strike a balance between experience and youth.

According to reports, the BCCI’s selection committee, along with the team management and new head coach Gautam Gambhir, is expected to have detailed conversations about the future composition of the ODI squad. While no immediate decisions are expected, the focus is likely to shift toward preparing a younger core of players who can carry the team forward into the next World Cup cycle. Players like Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Tilak Varma are seen as potential long-term options in the top order.

It is also worth noting that the Indian team management wants to avoid the last-minute retirements and unsettled combinations that plagued previous World Cup campaigns. Therefore, having clarity on the future of senior players like Rohit and Kohli is seen as crucial. The BCCI is reportedly looking for a smooth transition, where legends like them are given the farewell they deserve, but without hampering the progress of the next generation.

Another concern is the packed international calendar and the players’ commitments in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Both Rohit and Kohli continue to be key attractions in the IPL, but the physical demands of international cricket, especially in multi-format tours, may not be sustainable for much longer. Injury risks and mental fatigue are also part of the equation, particularly for players who have carried the weight of expectations for so long.

For now, neither Rohit Sharma nor Virat Kohli has made any official statement about their plans for the 2027 World Cup. They remain focused on current assignments, including the ongoing Test and T20I series. However, the growing chatter around their future indicates that a decision may not be far away. Some experts believe that the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy in 2025 could be the final major ICC event for one or both of them.

Ultimately, the BCCI faces a delicate challenge—managing the legacy of two modern greats while also building a team capable of dominating world cricket in the years ahead. Fans will undoubtedly hope to see Rohit and Kohli in one final World Cup, but the reality of time and transition may force tough decisions. Whether they take a graceful exit or continue to defy the odds, their contribution to Indian cricket will remain etched in history.