MS Dhoni shares his honest views on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s ODI World Cup 2027 prospects

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As the roadmap for the 2027 ICC ODI World Cup begins to take shape, the future of India’s veteran stalwarts, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, has become a central theme in cricketing circles. With the legendary duo having transitioned away from T20Is and Test matches (retiring from the longest format in May 2025), they are now exclusively committed to the 50-over game. While debates about their age and longevity persist, none other than MS Dhoni has stepped forward to offer a masterclass in perspective regarding their participation in the next global showpiece.

During a high-profile interaction with popular commentator Jatin Sapru on February 4, 2026, Dhoni silenced critics who lean heavily on the age factor. The former World Cup-winning captain emphasized that a player’s birth certificate should never be the primary tool for selection.

“Is age a factor? No. Is fitness a factor? Yes, fitness is a factor. Even if you’re 22, if you’re not fit, you shouldn’t be there; there are criteria for playing international cricket. When it comes to whether it’s Rohit, Virat, or other names that will come forward in three, five, or ten years’ time, the whole thing is this: just because somebody is in their 30s, it’s not for us to decide whether they can play the next World Cup. It’s for them to decide. If they keep performing and have the urge to do well for the country, then why not?,” Dhoni stated emphatically.

Dhoni argued that if a player—regardless of being 24 or 38—maintains elite fitness and continues to deliver match-winning performances, they have earned the right to decide their own departure. He highlighted a critical, often overlooked element: experience. Dhoni noted that high-pressure situations, particularly in World Cups, require a level of emotional control that only comes from playing 80 to 85 high-stakes games.

“You can’t get a 20-year-old who is experienced unless it’s Sachin Tendulkar,” Dhoni remarked, adding that the wisdom of those in their 30s is vital for taming the heart and handling the pump of death-over pressure. His stance serves as a gentle reminder to the BCCI and selectors that replacing class with youth prematurely can often backfire on the world stage.

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The statistical output of both players in the 2025-26 cycle provides a compelling case for Dhoni’s argument. Far from fading away, Kohli has entered a second peak. Over his last nine ODIs, Kohli has amassed a staggering 616 runs at an average of 88.00, including three centuries and three fifties. His dominance was most visible during the series against South Africa, where he hammered two hundreds, proving his hunger for the game remains insatiable.

On the other hand, Rohit, recently honoured with the Padma Shri 2026, continues to be a force at the top of the order. Despite a lean patch in the January series against New Zealand where he managed just 61 runs, his overall 2025 calendar year was remarkable. Rohit scored 650 runs at an average of 50.00, matching Kohli blow-for-blow and leading India to an ICC Champions Trophy 2025 victory.

Both players have also actively participated in domestic cricket, featuring in the Vijay Hazare Trophy to stay match-ready. With Kohli currently boasting an ICC ranking in the top five and Rohit reaching the 20,000 international run milestone, their recent form suggests that if the 2027 World Cup were held today, they would not just be participants, they would be India’s biggest match-winners.

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