Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma Are Backbone; Will Play 2027 World Cup, Confirms Kaif

Mohammad Kaif said India’s fortunes continued to depend on Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, insisting their performances directly decided results and confirmed their importance for the 2027 World Cup.

Mohammad Kaif has strongly backed Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, calling them an indispensable part of the Indian team and stating that India’s results clearly depend on their performances. The former India cricketer used the ongoing ODI series against New Zealand to underline his point.

In the first ODI in Vadodara, Kohli scored 93 off 91 balls after Rohit provided a solid start at the top. India successfully chased down a 301-run target with four wickets and an over to spare. However, the script flipped in the second ODI, where Rohit and Kohli were dismissed for 24 and 23 respectively, and India went on to lose the match.

Kaif criticised those questioning the relevance of the senior batters, pointing out that doubts were raised about their place in the squad just a few months ago. He said that while both players may be nearing the final phase of their careers, their impact on India’s results remains decisive.

“Virat and Rohit got out early, and you lost the game. First, you were hanging a sword on their head that they have to prove in every game. When they do, you win. When they get out, you are losing games. So accept them. At least now accept it that they will be a part of the team for the 2027 World Cup and are our senior players,” Kaif said on his YouTube channel.

“You want to take work out of them and not accept as well or give them credit. It cannot be like this. You show the number of wins under your tenure, the wins have come from Virat and Rohit. Accept that they are the backbone of the team. Tell this in the press conference,” he added.

Kohli, Rohit To Be The Pillars Of 2027 World Cup

Kaif further stated that the coaching staff is also aware that India’s chances of winning the 2027 ODI World Cup depend heavily on Kohli and Rohit, even if they do not openly admit it. He also highlighted the commitment shown by the former India captains despite playing irregularly.

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“Then you should give him more credit. Even if he is not playing regularly, India wins games when he scores. Given double credit then. When these two players get going, India wins games. Talk more about praising them. Look at the commitment, even if they play less,” Kaif stated.

“Even now, we are depending on these two. Only if these two score you will win the World Cup. Take this in writing. Even the coaches know this within themselves. No one will accept it on the outside. But inside, even they know and are hoping for these two to score so that if India wins, they keep getting chances to take credit. So then open up and give them credit. These things are very clearly seen,” he added.