Former Team India head coach Ravi Shastri feels that Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma`s hopes of featuring in the ODI World Cup 2027 depend on their form, fitness and hunger. He also said that the upcoming ODI series against Australia will be an important test of all three aspects.
Speaking about the duo, “That`s why they`re here (playing the ODI series against Australia). They`re part of the mix. It depends on their fitness, their hunger and, of course, form. So, I think this series is very important to see how they go. They themselves will know by the end of this series how they feel and then it`s their call,” Shastri said as quoted by cricket.com.au.
The former coach also stated that Rohit and Virat need to deliver big performances in the Australia series to cement their places in the squad.
The series will also mark the first appearance of the star duo since the Champions Trophy 2025 campaign in February this year.
Additionally, Rohit has been replaced by Shubman Gill as Team India`s new captain in the One-Day Internationals (ODIs). Under his leadership, the side is also busy engaging in the Test series against the West Indies.
Shastri also spoke about star Australian batsman Steve Smith by saying at this age, a player wants to enjoy the game.
“(It`s) the same thing with Steve Smith, who retired from ODIs in March, from Australia`s point of view. At that age, you`ve got to enjoy it, and you still have to have the hunger,” he said.
He further said that there will be no substitute when it comes to experience in the big matches.
“But there`s no substitute for experience when it comes to the big games, as we saw in the Champions Trophy. Come the big games, and the big boys step up,” Shastri added.
The three-match ODI series between Team India and Australia will kick start on October 19, with the first game scheduled to be played at the Optus Stadium in Perth. The second match will be played on October 23, followed by the third match on October 25.
(With PTI Inputs)