Former India wicketkeeper-batter Deep Dasgupta has stressed that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli must continue delivering consistent performances if they want to cement their places in India’s ODI side ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup. While backing the veteran duo, Dasgupta made it clear that past achievements alone cannot guarantee selection, insisting that every player in the squad must continue earning their place through performances.
Rohit and Kohli were last seen in action during India’s three-match ODI series against England. Although India lost the series 2-1, both senior batters ended on a positive note. Kohli struck back-to-back half-centuries in the final two ODIs, while Rohit silenced his critics with a magnificent 34th ODI century in the series finale. The Indian captain also became the first Indian batter to score an ODI hundred at Lord’s, bouncing back impressively after two disappointing outings earlier in the series.
With both players publicly expressing their desire to represent India at the 2027 ODI World Cup, Dasgupta believes they cannot afford slow starts to bilateral series. Instead, he wants the experienced pair to make an immediate impact and lead from the front.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Dasgupta said the expectation should not be limited to Rohit and Kohli but should apply to every member of the squad. “That has to be a conversation with everyone, not just Rohit and Virat. Players need to start the series well and hit the ground running. You can’t take one or two games to settle in. That’s where the support staff plays an important role by creating an environment that helps every player perform at their best,” he said.
Dasgupta also dismissed suggestions that the two batting greats require special discussions regarding their places in the playing XI. According to him, the same selection principles that applied during their peak years should continue today.
“Four years ago, they didn’t need to be reminded that they belonged in the team because their performances spoke for themselves. That shouldn’t change now. Selection should continue to be based on performances,” he added. Following their retirement from Test cricket in 2025, Rohit and Kohli now feature exclusively in the ODI format. Dasgupta admitted that this naturally increases scrutiny, as every innings carries greater significance when players are active in only one format.
He explained that multi-format cricketers often offset failures in one format with success in another, whereas Rohit and Kohli no longer have that luxury. As a result, every ODI performance will be closely analysed by fans and selectors alike.
India’s next ODI assignment is scheduled for late September, when they host the West Indies in a three-match series. With preparations for the 2027 World Cup gathering momentum, the series could prove crucial for Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and several other senior players looking to secure their places in India’s long-term ODI plans.
