‘You need this ability there’ - Irfan Pathan backs Rohit, Kohli for 2027 ODI World Cup

Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has given his thoughts on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s inclusion in ICC ODI World Cup 2027, and what the duo brings to the table with their presence in the Indian dressing room.

Kohli and Rohit one of the greatest white-ball players to ever grace the game, but are in the second half of their legendary careers. There are non-stop speculations of their future in the ODI format with the marquee event arriving next year hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.

Pathan was asked about the duo’s presence in the current Indian set-up. Speaking of Rohit, he noted that the opener’s game against pace bowling aligns well with South Africa’s bouncy and pace friendly wicket.

"What ability does Rohit Sharma bring with him? He plays the short ball very well. Cut and pull are his strengths. He easily gets time against short deliveries. That's what is going to happen in South Africa. You get swinging conditions with the new ball for sure, but you get bounce, and who can take advantage of bounce better than Rohit Sharma?" he responded.

While talking about Kohli, the former India pacer said that the right-hander brings in immense experience and will be needed in pressure situations.

"What does Virat bring with him? He brings his experience. No one chases better than him in ODIs. His numbers are incredible. If a wicket falls early, his experience at No. 3 will be useful there, to play cautiously and play a long inning as well. You need this ability in South Africa," Irfan noted.

Meanwhile, Kohli might miss the three-match ODI series against Afghanistan due to hamstring injury he suffered during Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 playing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The RCB batter had a terrific season, smashing 675 runs at a strike rate of 165.85, helping his side clinch the IPL title for the second consecutive season.