‘Just like Messi for Argentina’: Mohammed Kaif strongly advocates Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli for 2027 World Cup | Cricket news

India Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli (ANI Photo)

Amid growing speculation over the ODI futures of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, former India batsman Mohammed Kaif has thrown his weight behind the veteran duo, insisting that their experience will be crucial if India are to challenge for the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.Debate over Rohit and Virat’s places in India’s World Cup plans has intensified in recent weeks, with social media abuzz with reports suggesting one or both of the senior batsmen could be phased out ahead of the major tournament. However, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia recently rubbished rumors that the third ODI against England at Lord’s would be Rohit’s last appearance in the format.Speaking on Cricbuzz, Kaif said India cannot afford to ignore the experience of Rohit and Virat, especially given the conditions expected in South Africa.

‘India will need Rohit and Virat in South Africa’

Kaif said the 2027 World Cup will present a completely different challenge compared to previous editions, which makes the presence of experienced campaigners invaluable.“The 2027 phase will be very important. People are talking about Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma because it will not be an easy World Cup. The conditions will be different, there will be lively pitches and India will need both these players there. We would definitely like them to play as many matches as possible from now and stay fit,” said Mohammed Kaif.

He draws the Lionel Messi comparison

Kaif compared the importance of Rohit and Virat to that of football legend Lionel Messi, saying that experienced players often contribute more than just scoring or scoring goals.“Lionel Messi is 39 years old and his team reached the final of the FIFA World Cup. He didn’t score in the semi-final, but he assisted. That brings experience. When you have younger players who can finish the job, experienced players know how to lead them and create chances, so just like Messi is for Argentina, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are for India at the World Cup,” he added. The former India batsman added that the value of experience remains the same in all sports.“Whether it’s football or cricket, experience plays a huge role. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are considered among the greatest ODI players, so India will need them 100 per cent, especially under captain Shubman Gill in South African conditions,” concluded Kaif.