Overview:
While Rohit is working with Abhishek Nayar, Virat has started practising in London.
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will return to the field for the three ODIs against Australia starting October 19. This would be their first international assignment after the Champions Trophy final against New Zealand. The three games could decide the team’s direction before the 2027 ODI World Cup. Will Virat and Rohit be a part of the global tournament?
There is no definite answer as the World Cup is still two years away, and Rohit and Virat would be 40 and 39. According to reports, the two would be dropped from the team if they fail to perform in the upcoming matches, meaning the end of their careers. The challenge would be to remain match-ready, says Irfan Pathan.
“They will have to play regular cricket and stay fit. Virat is going to play only IPL, as there is no chance of him returning to first-class cricket. T20 matches have increased, and it has impacted the ODIs. There will be pressure on Virat and Rohit to maintain continuity,” Pathan told RevSportz.
“Rohit Sharma is keen about his fitness levels, and the same goes for Virat. This is important that they are working on their fitness,” he added.
“Gambhir and Agarkar have communicated their World Cup plans”: Irfan Pathan
While Rohit is working with Abhishek Nayar, Virat has started practising in London. Pathan mentioned that Agarkar and Gambhir have World Cup plans in place. They want the players to be in touch with the game.
“The communication is clear. Gambhir and Agarkar have made their stance clear. They want regular game time. As I said, getting regular game time will be a challenge for Virat and Rohit. Playing the 2027 World Cup will be a challenge as they don’t play for India regularly. They are not part of the current teams. There would be a big gap between three games against Australia and the IPL.”