The India National Cricket Team will be up against Afghanistan in a one-off Test on Saturday, which will be followed by a 3-match ODI series; however, there will be a big miss in the 50-over format as Virat Kohli has been ruled out of the series due to a hamstring injury, and Rohit Sharma is also doubtful due to the same injury.
Ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia, India does not play much ODI cricket this year, as they are lined up for the England series in England. But Virat Kohli is set to miss that series as well, as he will be out for nearly 6 weeks. This will be a big concern ahead of the mega event.
Before the start of the ODI series, former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan threw light on the importance of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s presence in the team during the ODI World Cup next year. He provided valuable insights on why these two batters can be crucial for the Men in Blue side.
While speaking on a Star Sports segment ‘Follow the Blues’, Irfan Pathan was questioned about Rohit-Kohli’s participation and importance in India’s team at the 2027 ODI World Cup. Pathan stated, "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.
His experience at No. 3 will be useful- Pathan on Kohli's experience in South Africa
The T20 World Cup winner also emphasised Kohli’s experience of playing at No. 3, as the former India captain has been a match-winner for the side over the years and has shown unreal consistency in the 50-over format. No batter has more runs than Virat Kohli batting at this position.
Pathan further added, "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."
Will Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma make it to 2027 World Cup?
Irfan Pathan firmly believes that Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will be in the 2027 ODI World Cup team for India. He also thinks that both cricketers will be keeping a firm eye on their fitness as age has been catching up with the batters, and he also pointed out that Rohit has dropped several kilograms in recent times.
Anil Kumble also suggested that in South African conditions, both Rohit and Virat’s presence will be key as both have ample experience of playing on bouncy tracks. "There are still a lot of matches before the World Cup. The World Cup is in South Africa, but I feel Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's experience will definitely be useful because we know the conditions will be different in South Africa," he said.
Also Read: "Best ODI player": Tim Southee crowns Virat Kohli as the ODI 'GOAT'
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