Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin voiced his disappointment over how the team’s long-term plans have been communicated to veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli ahead of the Australia tour. The appointment of Shubman Gill as ODI captain effectively ended Rohit Sharma’s successful tenure as leader.
Even though both Rohit and Kohli were included in the 15-man squad for the three-match series, there remains significant uncertainty about their long-term role in the team, particularly with an eye on the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Ravichandran Ashwin suggested that the management should have been transparent with Rohit and Kohli regarding the team’s future strategy, especially after they retired from T20Is following the 2024 T20 World Cup. Since then, both have participated in limited ODIs and Tests before stepping away from the latter ahead of the England tour.
“I really hope the conversation has happened with Virat and Rohit. But if the conversation has happened now, why did it not happen after they said they were retiring after the 2024 T20 World Cup? It could have happened then itself. Had it happened back then, they could have thought about whether to continue playing or not, because this is the direction the team is wishing to head towards,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.
“But currently, there’s a lot of uncertainty, which fuels speculation. Communication isn’t clear or consistent, leaving players in a vulnerable position. Considering Virat and Rohit’s immense contributions, better communication should be ensured not just for them, but for everyone,” Ashwin explained.
“Rohit Sharma And Virat Kohli Face Tough Path To 2027 ODI World Cup”- R Ashwin
The former spinner acknowledged that it will be challenging for the veteran duo to secure spots in the 2027 ODI World Cup, given their current form and fitness, especially with limited 50-over cricket scheduled.
“Let’s face it, if Rohit and Virat get to the 2027 World Cup at this age, I would really, really, take my cap off to both of them because it needs a lot of commitment. They are not getting much cricket beyond the IPL, so it would be an incredible achievement, but we need to give them the chance to attempt the achievement,” he added.
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