Gill Backs Rohit and Kohli Ahead of 2027 World Cup

India ODI captain Shubman Gill has firmly backed Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, dismissing doubts about the senior pair’s place in the side less than a year before the 2027 ODI World Cup. Speaking after the third ODI against the West Indies in New Chandigarh on Saturday, October 3, Gill said everyone has seen how well both batters have performed in recent matches.

Form That Speaks for Itself

Kohli opened the series with a hundred, and Rohit followed with a century in the second game. In the third ODI, Rohit fell just short of another three-figure score, finishing on 92. Gill said the experienced duo has been batting “really well” and also praised KL Rahul, who he said has delivered for the team whenever he has got the opportunity.

Despite these returns, questions about the future of the two veterans continue to surface. Kohli is 37 and Rohit is 39, and their ages have kept the debate alive. Gill, however, stressed their importance to the team and did not entertain any suggestion that the dressing room is uncertain about what they offer.

No Time for Experiments

There has also been talk of resting Rohit and Kohli to give younger players a chance. Gill ruled that out, pointing to the small number of ODIs India now plays. He said there is little room to experiment, and that the team wants to begin playing the combination it hopes to field at the World Cup.

Gill added that he hopes all available players will be at the team’s disposal from the next series, so that the preferred line-up can settle early.

With the captain’s public vote of confidence and both batters in strong form, Rohit and Kohli look set to remain central to India’s plans as preparations for the 2027 World Cup gather pace.