Indian cricket has already started looking ahead to the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2027, with Rohit Sharma’s place in the team emerging as one of the key questions for selectors and team management. While Rohit will turn 40 by the time the tournament begins, his former India teammate Ajinkya Rahane has backed the veteran opener to retain his place in the squad.

Rahane, who recently announced his retirement from international cricket, has urged head coach Gautam Gambhir and BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar to provide clarity on Rohit’s World Cup plans. According to Rahane, a player of Rohit’s stature deserves a place in the starting XI and should be given clear communication about the team’s intentions.

Rahane also pointed to his own experience of being left out of the team after his performances in the 2023 WTC Final against Australia. He explained that uncertainty over a player’s position can affect their rhythm and mindset, adding that clarity allows players to perform without additional pressure.

‘Cricket Is About Rhythm’

“I think it’s important to tell Rohit Sharma that he’s going to play the 2027 World Cup,” Rahane said in a statement to The Indian Express.

“If you see his contribution throughout so many years, it’s been amazing. So, you need the experience of such a player in the World Cup. That discussion shouldn’t even happen. If you say once, ‘Rohit Sharma, you’re going to play,’ that’s it. You can’t go series by series because he’s such a big player,” he said.

Rahane further stressed the importance of rhythm in cricket, regardless of a player’s experience.

“If you treat a big player like that, because as I said, it’s about rhythm. Cricket is about rhythm. No matter how many matches you’ve played, whether you’re a youngster or an experienced player in the team, it’s about rhythm. If your mind is free, you can play with that mindset,” he said.

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“As for Rohit’s quality, there’s no need to even speak about it. Such experience is needed in the team, so this debate shouldn’t even happen between the team management and the captain,” Rahane added.

Rohit’s Last ODI Appearance for India

Rohit last represented India during the away ODI series against England, where he scored a match-winning century in the deciding ODI at Lord’s.

Speculation that Rohit could bring an end to his decorated ODI career at Lord’s had intensified ahead of the match. The selectors had reportedly communicated their plans to him, but Rohit responded with a 138, putting the focus back on his place in the team.

If Rohit continues playing ODI cricket, his next assignment will be India’s home ODI series against the West Indies, scheduled to begin in late September.

‘Important to Tell Rohit About World Cup Plans’: Ajinkya Rahane Urges Agarkar, Gambhir to Bring ClarityIndian cricket has already started looking ahead to the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2027, with Rohit Sharma’s place in the team emerging as one of the key questions for selectors and team management. While Rohit will turn 40 by the time the tournament begins, his former India teammate Ajinkya Rahane has backed the veteran opener to retain his place in the squad.Rahane, who recently announced his retirement from international cricket, has urged head coach Gautam Gambhir and BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar to provide clarity on Rohit’s World Cup plans. According to Rahane, a player of Rohit’s stature deserves a place in the starting XI and should be given clear communication about the team’s intentions.Rahane also pointed to his own experience of being left out of the team after his performances in the 2023 WTC Final against Australia. He explained that uncertainty over a player’s position can affect their rhythm and mindset, adding that clarity allows players to perform without additional pressure.‘Cricket Is About Rhythm’“I think it’s important to tell Rohit Sharma that he’s going to play the 2027 World Cup,” Rahane said in a statement to The Indian Express.“If you see his contribution throughout so many years, it’s been amazing. So, you need the experience of such a player in the World Cup. That discussion shouldn’t even happen. If you say once, ‘Rohit Sharma, you’re going to play,’ that’s it. You can’t go series by series because he’s such a big player,” he said.Rahane further stressed the importance of rhythm in cricket, regardless of a player’s experience.“If you treat a big player like that, because as I said, it’s about rhythm. Cricket is about rhythm. No matter how many matches you’ve played, whether you’re a youngster or an experienced player in the team, it’s about rhythm. If your mind is free, you can play with that mindset,” he said.“As for Rohit’s quality, there’s no need to even speak about it. Such experience is needed in the team, so this debate shouldn’t even happen between the team management and the captain,” Rahane added.Rohit’s Last ODI Appearance for IndiaRohit last represented India during the away ODI series against England, where he scored a match-winning century in the deciding ODI at Lord’s.Speculation that Rohit could bring an end to his decorated ODI career at Lord’s had intensified ahead of the match. The selectors had reportedly communicated their plans to him, but Rohit responded with a 138, putting the focus back on his place in the team.If Rohit continues playing ODI cricket, his next assignment will be India’s home ODI series against the West Indies, scheduled to begin in late September.