Former Australia captain Steve Waugh believes Rohit Sharma’s chances of featuring in the 2027 ODI World Cup will depend largely on his commitment and preparation rather than his ability to score runs. At 39, Rohit has already retired from Test and T20I cricket, leaving his ODI future as the major question ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
Rohit’s place in India’s ODI plans came under scrutiny during the team’s recent series in England. The veteran opener struggled in the first two matches, scoring only 37 runs in total. As speculation grew that the series could mark the end of his international career, Rohit responded in emphatic fashion.
The former India captain produced a stunning 138 off 110 balls in the series finale, reminding everyone of his ability to dominate at the highest level. However, Waugh believes talent alone will not determine whether Rohit makes it to the 2027 World Cup. Speaking on Star Sports, the Australian great said the decision ultimately rests with Rohit and whether he is prepared to make the necessary sacrifices.
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“Only Rohit Sharma can answer that question. At that age, you’ve still got the skill and the know-how. But have you got the desire to be there, train hard and make the sacrifices to prepare 100%? Rohit’s the only one who can answer that. There’s no doubt that he has the talent to score runs. But is he going to prepare at 100% and be fully committed to it?” Steve Waugh said.
Rohit remains one of the most successful ODI batters in the history of Indian cricket. He has scored 11,895 runs in 288 ODIs at an average of nearly 49 and a strike rate of 93.04, including 34 centuries.
His record in ODI World Cups is even more impressive. Rohit is the fourth-highest run-scorer in World Cup history, having amassed more than 1,500 runs at an average of 60.57 and a strike rate of 105.49. Waugh further stressed that Rohit can still earn a place in India’s 2027 World Cup squad if he maintains complete commitment to his fitness and preparation.
“Regarding his 100% commitment and preparation, if the answer is yes, then he can make it. But if the answer to either of those questions is no, then he won’t make it. It’s obvious that he has the talent, but there is a lot more needed than talent to be successful, so it’s really about 100% commitment,” Steve Waugh added.
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Rohit also holds the record for the most ODI World Cup centuries, with seven. He famously scored five centuries during the 2019 edition, a record for a single World Cup. The veteran batter is expected to return to ODI action when India host the West Indies in a three-match series beginning September 27.
