Sports/Alive News: BCCI president Mithun Manhas has said that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s selection for the 2027 ODI World Cup will depend on their fitness and performance, not their age. The tournament is scheduled to be held in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia in October-November 2027.
Speaking to Sportstar ahead of India’s multi-format tour of New Zealand, Manhas said both senior batters would need to maintain consistent performances to secure their places in the World Cup squad.
According to Manhas, fitness and performance should be the only criteria for selection. He said players are initially selected on potential, but a comeback to the team depends on performance and the ability to win matches for the country.
Rohit will turn 40 in April 2027, while Kohli will be 38 during the tournament. Their future in the ODI setup has been a topic of discussion as India prepares for the next World Cup cycle.
Manhas also highlighted the advantage Shubman Gill could gain from having experienced players in the team. He said Rohit, Kohli and Hardik Pandya could support Gill’s leadership, while Jasprit Bumrah and other senior players could take responsibility for different aspects of the game.
Manhas added that Gill’s experience as captain of Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League, along with his international leadership experience, could help him manage the team effectively.
He described the presence of senior players as an advantage for Gill, particularly as India builds towards the 2027 World Cup.
