Gambhir on Kohli and Sharma’s Future, Hints at 2027 World Cup Possibilities

In his inaugural press conference since taking over as India’s new head coach, Gautam Gambhir addressed the future of Indian cricket stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, suggesting they could remain in contention for the 2027 World Cup. The two veterans, who recently announced their retirements from T20I cricket after India’s T20 World Cup win in the West Indies, still have a lot to offer, according to Gambhir.

Gambhir’s confidence in Kohli and Sharma was evident as he emphasized their potential contributions in the upcoming major tournaments, including the Champions Trophy and the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. “I think they have shown what they can deliver on the big stage, whether it’s the T20 World Cup or the 50-over World Cup as well. One thing I can be very clear of is that both those guys have a lot of cricket left in them,” Gambhir stated.

The newly-appointed head coach also hinted at the possibility of Kohli and Sharma featuring in the 2027 World Cup, provided they maintain their fitness and form. “More importantly, with the Champions Trophy [in 2025] and a big tour of Australia [in November 2024], obviously they would be motivated enough. And then, hopefully, if they can maintain their fitness, the 2027 [ODI] World Cup as well,” Gambhir said.

Kohli and Sharma are set to return to action in the three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka starting August 1, after being included at Gambhir’s request. This series marks Gambhir’s first assignment as head coach and is seen as vital preparation for the upcoming Champions Trophy. “Rohit and Kohli’s return is an added boost for the Men in Blue and will act as match practice for the two batting superstars before the next big ICC tournament early next year,” Gambhir noted.

When asked about their future, Gambhir emphasized that the decision ultimately lies with the players. “This is a very personal decision. I can’t say how much cricket is left in them. Ultimately, it’s up to them as well, it’s up to the players. How much can they contribute to the team’s success. Because, ultimately, it’s the team that is important. But looking at what Virat and Rohit can deliver, I think they still have a lot of cricket [left to play]. They’re still world-class players and obviously any team would want to have both of them for as long as possible,” he explained.

Gambhir also touched upon the topic of workload management, particularly for players like Jasprit Bumrah. While he acknowledged the importance of managing the workload for exceptional talents like Bumrah, he advocated for consistent play for batsmen like Kohli and Sharma. “Workload management is surely important but maybe more for someone like Bumrah, who is an exceptional and a rare talent. But as far as batters are concerned, they should play. They should be available for most games. But for Bumrah, we need to keep him fresh. Workload management for fast bowlers becomes important. For Rohit and Virat, I think they can play more now that they have retired from T20I internationals,” Gambhir concluded.

With their sights set on upcoming challenges and the possibility of featuring in the 2027 World Cup, Kohli and Sharma’s journey under Gambhir’s leadership promises to be an exciting chapter for Indian cricket.

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