The former India captain cautions about the natural cycle of the game and the challenge of longevity
New Delhi, June 22, 2025 — As cricket fans continue to speculate over the future of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in India’s 50-over setup, former India captain Sourav Ganguly has offered a realistic perspective on their potential participation in the 2027 ODI World Cup. Speaking to PTI, Ganguly acknowledged the two legends’ ongoing contributions but emphasized that the demands of the game might make it difficult for them to feature in another World Cup.
Both Kohli and Rohit will be nearing 40 by the time the next tournament arrives. While their fitness and performance continue to impress, Ganguly pointed out that the game eventually moves on from every player—no matter how iconic.
“It won’t be easy. India will play about 15 one-day games a year. To remain in form, fit, and hungry for a long time at this age is not simple,” Ganguly said. “They have been incredible servants of Indian cricket, but everyone must accept that the game evolves and so do careers.”
Kohli, who scored consistently in the recent Champions Trophy, and Rohit, who led with characteristic calm and power at the top, have shown they still belong at the highest level. However, the number of ODIs India is scheduled to play over the next two years is limited, and with the Indian Premier League also taking a toll physically and mentally, the window for form retention becomes narrower.
Ganguly made it clear that while he won’t offer direct advice to either player, he trusts their judgment. “They understand the game as much as I do, maybe more. They will know when the right time comes.”
The BCCI and new head coach Gautam Gambhir are also expected to monitor the performance and fitness levels of both senior players before making long-term decisions. With India undergoing a slow but visible transition, the emergence of younger players in the top order will also influence the final squad for 2027.
The message from Ganguly is not a warning, but a reminder of cricket’s reality: legends remain respected, but the demands of modern international sport often require difficult decisions.
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