BCCI President Mithun Manhas said that fitness and performance, not age, will be the key factor in selection for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's participation in the 2027 ODI World Cup.

BCCI President's reaction on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli

Cricket fans are keenly watching whether Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will play in the 2027 ODI World Cup. The age of both veterans is a topic of constant debate. Meanwhile, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) President Mithun Manhas has expressed his opinion on this issue. He clearly stated that fitness and performance are more important than age for team selection. However, his statement does not confirm whether either player will play in the World Cup.

Mithun Manhas stated in an interview that if a player is fit, performing well, and helping the country win matches, age shouldn't be a barrier to selection. According to him, fitness and performance are the most important factors in securing a place in the team.

Rohit and Virat will face a big challenge.

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have retired from T20 International and Test cricket. Both are now focusing on ODI cricket. Maintaining their fitness and performing consistently until the 2027 World Cup will be crucial for them.

Rohit will turn 40 in April 2027, while Virat will be 38 during the World Cup. Both were part of the Indian team in the 2023 ODI World Cup. India lost to Australia in the final of that tournament. Now, both will be aiming to play in the next World Cup.

Shubman Gill will get the support of experienced players.

Manhas also emphasized the importance of senior players' experience for Indian captain Shubman Gill. He said that the presence of players like Rohit, Virat, and Hardik Pandya in the team could help Gill. Meanwhile, Jasprit Bumrah could take over the bowling duties. Having experienced players can be beneficial for the captain in big tournaments.

All eyes will be on the New Zealand series.

Rohit and Virat's performances will be crucial in preparing for the 2027 World Cup. Both will also be under scrutiny in the ODI series against New Zealand. However, their selection for the World Cup won't depend solely on one series. The final decision will be made by the selectors based on fitness, performance, and the team's needs. For now, Manhas's statement has reignited discussions about the two veterans' World Cup prospects.