Shastri Erupts Over Debate on Rohit, Kohli’s 2027 World Cup Future

Former India coach Ravi Shastri has hit out at the continuing debate over whether Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma can last until the 2027 World Cup. His emotional outburst has revived talk of friction between veteran voices in the game and the selection panel. Shastri insisted the two batters are still central to India’s plans and should not be doubted.

Emotional Outburst on Air

Speaking on Star Sports ahead of the first ODI against the West Indies in Kerala on Sunday, the 64-year-old was asked how he would react if he were India’s coach for the 2027 World Cup and both Rohit and Kohli were available to him. Shastri responded with visible frustration. He dismissed the constant questioning of their futures and said the pair remain key players.

Giants of White-Ball Cricket

Shastri praised the legacy and impact of both players, calling them giants of white-ball cricket and role models for young cricketers. His message was that players of such stature deserve respect, not repeated scrutiny over how long they can go on. He suggested that anyone trying to push them out may end up going themselves.

That remark was widely read as an indirect dig at chief selector Ajit Agarkar, whose stint ends early next month. Agarkar is reportedly unwilling to seek another term. He is said to be unhappy that the BCCI has backed Rohit for the 2027 World Cup, which runs contrary to his plans. Shastri appeared to suggest that Agarkar, in seeking to move Rohit aside, ended up losing his own position.

With the ODI series against the West Indies about to begin, the spotlight will stay on both veterans. Whatever the selectors’ thinking, Shastri has made clear where he stands.