Head backs Rohit, Kohli to continue till 2027 World Cup

Australia batter Travis Head believes Indian veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are likely to continue their ODI careers until the 2027 World Cup, despite widespread speculation about their futures in the format.

The 2023 World Cup finalists will face off in a three-match ODI series beginning Sunday in Perth. Ahead of the tour, the BCCI handed ODI captaincy duties to Shubman Gill, with Rohit stepping aside, a move many have interpreted as a symbolic farewell series for Rohit and Kohli on Australian soil.

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“They have been awesome for India, I guess Axar can speak more highly about them than myself. But two quality players, two of the best white-ball players. Virat is probably the greatest white-ball player. Rohit is not that far behind,” Head said on Friday in Perth, as India allrounder Axar Patel stood alongside him.

“Someone who opens the batting. I have huge regard for what Rohit has been able to do. I am sure they will be missed at some stage, but I think they both are going until 2027 (looks at Axar Patel and the all-rounder smiles). They both are trying to get to the World Cup. It is great for the game that they are still playing,” he added.

Axar, who will fill in for Ravindra Jadeja as India’s primary all-rounder in the series, praised the duo’s professionalism and readiness ahead of the opening game.

“They are world-class players. They know what to do, and they are ready to go. They are professionals and they know what to do. They are ready to go,” Axar said.

“If you speak about their form, they have been preparing well, hence I think they are ready. Everyone has given their fitness Test, they are raring to go now,” he added.