Gavaskar tells BCCI to write Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli's names ‘straight in’ for World Cup: ‘No matter what happens now’
Gavaskar’s Strong Endorsement
Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has voiced a firm message to the BCCI include Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the 2027 ODI World Cup squad “no matter what happens now.” Speaking to India Today after India’s nine-wicket victory over Australia in Sydney, the former India captain asserted that the duo’s class, intent, and experience make them automatic selections if they remain available and fit.
Intent and Pedigree on Display
“The moment they made themselves available for this trip, it was clear they want to be there for the 2027 World Cup,” Gavaskar said. “And irrespective of what happens between now and then, whether they score runs or not, with the ability and experience they possess, if they are available, they will be certainties in the squad.” He added that their names could be “written straight into the World Cup squad for South Africa 2027.”
Vintage Show in Sydney
Gavaskar’s comments came after both veterans delivered a masterclass in the third ODI at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Rohit Sharma produced a fluent century, while Virat Kohli after two rare ducks earlier in the series crafted a composed unbeaten 74. The pair’s unbroken 168-run partnership powered India to a dominant win, avoiding a whitewash and reaffirming their status as the team’s backbone.
Class Over Cycles
The cricketing great’s words arrive amid debates over workload management and future planning for senior players. However, Gavaskar reframed the conversation insisting that selections should prioritize “bankable quality” over form cycles. He highlighted that the duo’s pedigree and rhythm are invaluable, and their leadership and composure under pressure make them indispensable assets.
Still India’s Prime Batters
For Kohli, the Sydney innings was a statement a reminder of his unmatched ODI consistency and resilience. For Rohit, the century reinforced his dominance as a top-order powerhouse. Together, they proved that even as the team transitions toward the future, their presence continues to define India’s batting authority.
Conclusion
Sunil Gavaskar’s unwavering backing of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli serves as a reminder that class, experience, and intent still reign supreme in Indian cricket. As the journey to the 2027 World Cup begins, the two stalwarts have once again proven why their names deserve to be written and underlined in India’s plans for South Africa.
