Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli will play the ODI World Cup 2027? Here's the update

Former India cricketer Yograj Singh expressed his delight upon hearing Rohit Sharma’s confirmation that he wasn’t considering retirement. Rohit’s announcement came after he led India to a remarkable victory in the Champions Trophy 2025, securing the nation’s first win in the tournament in 12 years. The final, held on Sunday, March 9, saw India triumph over New Zealand, with Rohit playing a pivotal role. He scored a match-winning 76 runs off 83 balls, which included seven boundaries and three sixes, setting the tone for the Indian chase of 252 runs. During the post-match press conference, Rohit addressed the growing speculations surrounding his future in the national team, putting the rumors to rest by confirming that he had no plans of retiring anytime soon. 

Yograj Singh wants Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli to win the ODI World Cup 2027

This statement came as a relief to his fans and the cricketing community, who have been anxious about the veteran’s future, especially as some of his contemporaries have already begun to transition out of the format. Yograj Singh, a former cricketer and father of all-rounder Yuvraj Singh, was particularly pleased with Rohit's stance, recognizing his leadership qualities and crucial contributions to India’s success. Singh’s comments reflect a sense of reassurance for Indian cricket, as Rohit continues to remain an integral part of the team moving forward.

Yograj Singh, the former India cricketer, expressed his strong belief that both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli should continue playing for India until at least the 2027 ODI World Cup before considering retirement. Singh backed the two stalwarts, stating that they still have a lot to offer to the team in terms of leadership, experience, and performance. According to Singh, both players have the skills and form to remain integral to the Indian squad, and their contributions cannot be easily overlooked.

Singh emphasized that no one, including external critics or fans, has the right to dictate when a player should retire, especially when it comes to icons like Rohit and Kohli. He further pointed out that both cricketers have been instrumental in India's successes over the years, and their value to the team goes beyond just their batting or leadership on the field.

The former India seamer stressed that it should be up to the players themselves to decide when it’s time to call it a day, based on their fitness and desire to play. He also stated that as long as Rohit and Kohli are performing at a high level, they should be given the freedom to extend their careers as long as they see fit. This sentiment reflects the respect and admiration for the two cricketers who have been pivotal to Indian cricket’s success in recent years.

"The best thing is that Rohit Sharma said he is not retiring. Well done, my son. Nobody can retire Rohit and Virat. They should think about retirement after winning the 2027 ODI World Cup. I had said this before India would win," said former Indian cricketer Yograj Singh in a recent interview. 

Yuvraj Singh's father, Yograj Singh, strongly defended Rohit Sharma after the Indian captain faced trolling over his fitness from a section of social media users. In a passionate response, Yograj lashed out at the critics, particularly targeting those who had no right to question Rohit's physical condition. He singled out Congress leader Shama Mohamed, suggesting that she should first prove her own fitness before passing judgment on Rohit.

Yograj made it clear that public figures like Rohit, who dedicate their lives to professional cricket, shouldn't be scrutinized by people who lack the same discipline and commitment. He pointed out that players like Rohit have an immense workload and maintain top-level fitness to perform at the highest level of cricket. In his defense, Yograj emphasized the need for constructive criticism rather than unwarranted trolling. Yograj’s comments reflect a broader sentiment that athletes should be respected for their hard work and dedication, especially when they are continuously representing the country on the world stage. His words not only defended Rohit but also highlighted the importance of respecting athletes’ efforts and not focusing on negative narratives without understanding the complete picture.

"Some people were raising questions about Rohit Sharma's fitness. I want to ask Madam (Congress leader Shama Mohamed) about her fitness. It does not suit them to comment on players," Yograj concluded.

Rohit Sharma provided India with some brisk starts throughout the 2025 Champions Trophy but was unable to convert his starts into big scores before the final. However, the 37-year-old saved his best for the most crucial match, scoring a vital half-century in the final to guide India to a four-wicket victory over New Zealand with an over to spare. His knock was instrumental in securing India's third Champions Trophy title. Meanwhile, Virat Kohli was the second-highest run-scorer for India in the tournament, amassing 218 runs from five innings at an impressive average of 54.50. Kohli's consistency throughout the tournament was a key factor in India's successful campaign. Both players delivered when it mattered most, ensuring India clinched the coveted title.