India’s star cricketers Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are considering participation in the 2027 ODI World Cup, but head coach Gautam Gambhir emphasized the importance of concentrating on the present. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Gambhir refrained from committing to the veteran duo’s future, highlighting the significance of current form in a competitive environment.
With Shubman Gill’s recent appointment as India’s ODI captain, national selectors indicate a shift in the team dynamics, suggesting a transition phase for the 50-over format. Kohli and Rohit, approaching 39 and 40 by the next World Cup, must now contend with questions about their long-term roles within the squad.
“The 50-over World Cup is still two and a half years away. It is crucial to stay focused on the present. They are exceptional players whose experience will be vital in Australia. We hope they can perform well and that as a team, we have a successful series,” said Gambhir when reflecting on Kohli and Rohit’s potential contributions.
Sources indicate that the decision regarding their involvement in the World Cup hinges largely on their performances in the upcoming nine ODIs, scheduled against Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand over the next few months.
In Gambhir’s first full year as head coach, he actively oversees a transition across all formats, prioritizing the identification of new talent while fostering a more stable selection process. When asked about the qualities he seeks in players for national selection, Gambhir elaborated:
“Talent comes first, followed by work ethic. The character within the dressing room, particularly in red-ball cricket, is crucial. We also evaluate the player’s hunger for success. Those who possess these traits are likely to thrive in their careers,” he stated.
Gambhir acknowledged the competitive nature of international cricket, describing it as an “insecure environment” due to the limited number of spots available.
“It’s essential to grant players a longer run. With only 15 positions available on the team, many talented individuals await their chance. By selecting the right characters, and allowing them time to prove their worth, we can avoid inconsistent selections,” he explained.
On a more personal note regarding selection practices, Gambhir expressed his aversion to the phrase ‘dropping players.’ He stated:
“We don’t drop players; we select others. When a player doesn’t make the cut, it’s important for a coach to show empathy rather than being ruthless.”
In praising the team’s dedication during the recent England tour, Gambhir concluded:
“The Test squad displayed remarkable discipline and hard work during their time in England, which was a significant affirmation of our efforts.”