Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan has backed senior stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to play an important role for India at the 2027 ODI World Cup. Despite the ongoing debate surrounding their age and long-term future, Dhawan believes the two experienced batters still have plenty to offer and can make a major impact if they feature in the tournament.

Dhawan shared his views while speaking during the inauguration of the first STEM Lab established by his foundation. His comments come at a time when questions continue to be raised about whether Rohit and Kohli, aged 39 and 37 respectively, will be able to remain at the highest level until the 2027 World Cup.

However, both players have continued to answer their critics with their performances. Rohit and Kohli enjoyed encouraging outings during India’s recent three-match ODI series against England in July. Although India lost the series 2-1, Kohli contributed two half-centuries, while Rohit produced a memorable century at Lord’s.

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“They are legends. They have performed for the country for so many years. Whether it’s Virat or Rohit, all of us have had a relationship since we were around 16 years old. They are two to three years younger than me, and it is a matter of great joy that they are preparing now,” Shikhar Dhawan was quoted as saying by The Cricket News.

Dhawan was particularly impressed by Rohit’s response during a difficult phase. The Indian opener’s century at Lord’s came when the team needed a significant contribution from its senior batter and underlined his ability to deliver under pressure.

“Rohit recently scored a hundred at Lord’s. It was a wonderful century and showed how his bat speaks. He has been doing that for so many years, and when a difficult phase came, he responded in the best possible way with his performances,” Shikhar Dhawan said.

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The former opener also praised Kohli for his remarkable fitness and consistency. Despite entering the latter stages of his career, Kohli continues to maintain high fitness standards while performing against top-quality opposition.

“As for Virat, no amount of praise is enough. The way he keeps himself so fit and continues to perform at the highest level is remarkable,” Shikhar Dhawan added.