'Prove you're serious!': R Ashwin tells Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli to play domestic cricket to stay in 2027 World Cup plans

Ravichandran Ashwin backs the BCCI's decisions regarding Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's ODI futures, emphasising long-term planning for the 2027 World Cup. He suggests domestic tournaments like the Vijay Hazare Trophy are crucial for the veterans to prove their commitment and form, while also endorsing Shubman Gill's captaincy for future leadership grooming.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma

NEW DELHI: Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has weighed in on the recent debates surrounding Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s future in the ODI setup, supporting the BCCI and selection committee’s decisions while urging the senior batters to prove their seriousness for the 2027 World Cup through domestic tournaments.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW! Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin acknowledged Rohit’s achievements as captain, having led India to the 2024 T20 World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy, but noted the selectors’ primary considerations were long-term planning and form sustainability.

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“There is nothing debatable to speak about Rohit's captaincy. But is he the direction for the 2027 World Cup? That will be the question asked by the selection committee and the coach. They obviously had a discussion, and two things might have emerged: one, Kohli and Rohit are not in our 2027 World Cup plans; two, if they are indeed included, can they maintain their form until the ICC tournament in 2027? Both are big questions,” Ashwin explained. The veteran bowler suggested that participation in India A series or the Vijay Hazare Trophy would allow the duo to regain rhythm and signal their commitment. “If you need their services, you have to find a way… you must give them the opportunity. If you have given them the chance and they said no, then it is clear. If the selector or the coach has told you that I want you to play this series, not for selection purposes, but only to get into the rhythm. It is only to show that they are serious about playing,” he said.

Poll

Should Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli participate in domestic tournaments to prove their commitment for the 2027 World Cup?

Yes, it's essential for their selection No, they have proven themselves already Only if the selectors request it Unsure, depends on their form

Ashwin also emphasised that selectors wouldn’t dismiss Rohit or Virat lightly, acknowledging their experience. “I don't think any selector or coach will have the heart to say that Virat and Rohit's services are no longer needed… You cannot go leading up to the World Cup with so many question marks,” he said. On the ODI captaincy change, Ashwin backed Shubman Gill’s appointment, explaining the rationale: “The selectors might say that if Rohit remains captain and he is unfit in 2026, we will not have enough time to groom a new leader. From a selection perspective, they have taken a rational decision.” Ashwin’s comments underline a pragmatic approach: balancing respect for cricketing legends while ensuring India’s long-term World Cup strategy remains on track, with domestic performances serving as a key indicator of commitment and form.

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