Anil Kumble on Kohli and Rohit’s ODI Future: “It Won’t Be Easy”

Former India coach Anil Kumble has shared his thoughts on the future of senior players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in One Day Internationals (ODIs). He believes that staying fit for the 2027 World Cup will be a big challenge for both.

Kumble Highlights Fitness Challenge

Speaking at a JioHotstar event, Kumble said it will not be easy for the two legends to keep up with the demands of ODI cricket. Both have stepped away from Tests and T20Is, and the long gaps between ODI series make preparation harder.

“It’s not easy to just do what they need to in terms of preparing for an ODI, which is six months down the line. It’s going to be a challenge,” Kumble said.

He added that although it’s tough, Kohli and Rohit are champion players who understand how to manage their game and fitness. He urged fans and experts to celebrate their careers while they are still active.

Kohli Eyes 2027 World Cup, Rohit Takes It Slow

Virat Kohli has already expressed his desire to play and win the ODI World Cup in 2027, which will likely be his final appearance at the event. Rohit Sharma, on the other hand, is taking things “one game at a time.”

Kumble believes both players will aim to make up for India’s heartbreaking loss in the 2023 World Cup final against Australia.

“Ideally, they would like to play until the 2027 World Cup, because that’s something that did not happen. We saw Australia lifting the trophy in 2023,” he said.

Sudharsan and Jaiswal Could Be India’s Future

Looking ahead, Kumble also named two young batters — Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan — as possible future stars in the ODI setup. He thinks Sudharsan, who is not yet part of the main squad, could break in based on his upcoming performances in England.

“I think he will make it to the team based on his form in England. He’s someone to watch out for,” Kumble noted.

India’s Next ODI Assignments

India’s next ODI series is against Bangladesh starting August 17, 2025. The real test, however, will come in October during a tour of Australia, which includes three ODIs and five T20Is.

Meanwhile, Kohli and Rohit may clash in the IPL 2025 playoffs if Royal Challengers Bengaluru qualify. If RCB beat Lucknow Super Giants, they will face Punjab Kings in Qualifier 1. If not, they will meet Mumbai Indians in the Eliminator, setting up a potential face-off between the two icons.

Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricadium on WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Telegram, and Instagram