India showed remarkable dominance throughout the 2023 World Cup, but their campaign ended in disappointment with a loss to Australia in the final on November 19.
Travis Head’s remarkable century and disciplined bowling led Australia to a comfortable six-wicket victory over the previously undefeated Indian team, securing their sixth World Cup title.
India must regroup for the next World Cup in South Africa in 2027, but the current squad has aging players, many of whom may not be available for the upcoming tournament.
Here are three Indian players who may not play in another ODI World Cup:
#1 Suryakumar Yadav
Suryakumar Yadav earned a spot in India’s 2023 World Cup squad amidst debate, showcasing the team management’s confidence in the dynamic batter over other options like Sanju Samson.
Despite contributing with a crucial innings against England, Suryakumar Yadav didn’t leave a significant impact overall. Across seven matches, he amassed 106 runs at an average of 17.66 with a strike rate of 100.95, registering 12 fours and one six.
It would be quite unexpected if Suryakumar Yadav is retained in the ODI squad post the World Cup. The experiment didn’t yield the desired results, and given that he is now 33 years old, it’s unlikely he’ll be part of the plans for the next edition.
#2 Ravichandran Ashwin
Ravichandran Ashwin was a divisive choice when added to India’s 2023 World Cup squad. Originally, Axar Patel was set to be the backup spin-bowling all-rounder, but Ashwin was brought in late due to an injury to Axar.
Ashwin featured in the opening game against Australia, taking one wicket and conceding 34 runs. Despite speculations of him playing in subsequent matches, it didn’t happen. His experience remained on the bench due to Hardik Pandya’s injury limiting the option for an extra spinner.
At 37, it’s safe to assume that Ravichandran Ashwin won’t be considered for the 2027 World Cup, and he might face a permanent exclusion from the ODI side.
#3 Rohit Sharma
Regrettably, Rohit Sharma, despite a distinguished ODI career with numerous records, may conclude it without a World Cup victory. The accomplished opener, absent from India’s 2011 triumph, has faced heartbreak in subsequent attempts.
Rohit Sharma, a standout performer in the 2023 World Cup, captivated fans with explosive starts in the powerplay. He accumulated 597 runs at an average of 54.27 and an impressive strike rate of 125.94, the highest in the team.
However, Rohit Sharma, who dazzled in the 2023 World Cup, may have played his final tournament at nearly 37 years old.
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