Robin Singh Backs Rohit Sharma and Kohli for 2027 World Cup Role

Former India all-rounder Robin Singh believes Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli remain central to India's plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup, to be jointly hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia. Speaking exclusively to IANS, Singh pointed to the sustained form of both former captains as a key reason why age should not be viewed as a concern heading into the tournament.

Rohit has looked in imperious touch of late, striking two centuries and a 92 in his last five ODI innings, while Kohli has chipped in with a hundred and two fifty-plus scores of 74 and 65 across the same span. For fans tracking India's build-up to the global showpiece, that kind of consistency from two of the format's modern greats offers reassurance, and those following the numbers closely on platforms like play on 360 will note how rarely both batters have dipped out of form together in this phase of their careers. With the tournament now less than a year away, Singh feels the duo's experience combined with current touch makes them indispensable. play on 360

"I think experience is one thing. But more importantly, I think it's their form that is important. And of course, with age comes plenty of experience. So that's really not a problem. They know what to do," Singh told IANS. He added that both players have managed their fitness exceptionally well, which he views as equally critical to their continued presence in the side. "It's more about staying in the moment, staying fit and continuing to play well. I think they are doing that exceptionally well. So there are no complaints. They definitely will be a big asset to the Indian team," he said.

Gambhir's Experiments and the Road to 2027

India have used the recent ODI series against the West Indies to test various combinations as the team management works towards settling on its World Cup squad. Singh believes head coach Gautam Gambhir and his support staff already have a clear blueprint in mind. "I am pretty sure Gautam and his team members have a clear formula. I am sure he has a way of approaching the World Cup and knows the type of players he wants for the tournament," Singh said, adding that selectors would likely give fringe players enough opportunities before finalising their best XI closer to the event.

Bhuvneshwar and Shami in the Reckoning

The conversation around experienced campaigners extends to the pace bowling ranks as well. Bhuvneshwar Kumar's recall to the T20I squad for India's upcoming tour of New Zealand has reignited debate over whether he and Mohammed Shami could feature in World Cup plans, particularly given the seam-friendly conditions expected in southern Africa. Singh, who has coached in the IPL with Deccan Chargers and Mumbai Indians, said both bowlers deserve consideration if they remain part of the team management's thinking. "If they are in the mix, they should be playing. I don't see any surprises happening. But if they are not in the mix, then it becomes difficult," he said.

Singh was unequivocal in his praise for the pair, citing their continued performances in domestic and franchise cricket as evidence they still have plenty to offer. "I think these two are excellent bowlers irrespective of their age. They have actually done enough to give themselves a chance to get back into the side," he said, underlining that experience, when backed by current form, remains a currency Indian cricket cannot afford to ignore ahead of 2027.