Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli may soon step into the ranks of former cricketers, following a series of pivotal decisions by Ajit Agarkar and Gautam Gambhir.
The Endgame for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli
We’re closer to the end than you think — the conclusion of a glorious era in Indian cricket is approaching, as two of the nation’s biggest batting stalwarts, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, prepare to take their final walk into the sunset. Though both have been named in India’s 15-member squad for the ODI series in Australia starting October 19, the three matches Down Under could mark the beginning of the end for the “Ro-Ko” era.
On Saturday, the BCCI chairman of selectors all but confirmed that neither Kohli nor Rohit is likely to feature in India’s plans for the 2027 World Cup, and a report by The Telegraph suggests that, for both legends, the endgame has already begun.
With both players remaining non-committal about India’s next major ICC event in South Africa two years from now, the road ahead looks uncertain. Despite a few upcoming ODI series — against South Africa at home and New Zealand — the physical and mental demands of international cricket may prove too taxing for the two veterans, who have already stepped away from T20Is and Tests.
Interestingly, The Telegraph also revealed that Shubman Gill’s elevation to ODI captaincy was part of a long-term plan quietly devised by chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar and head coach Gautam Gambhir. “The plan to put Shubman Gill in charge of the ODI side had been devised much earlier, and the new Test captain’s success in England only helped the selectors and team management’s cause,” the report added. “The blueprint, crafted by Agarkar and Gambhir, received full approval from the Board’s top brass.”
Can Rohit and Kohli prolong their careers?
Sachin Tendulkar retired from international cricket at 40, and MS Dhoni bowed out at 39. But it appears Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli may not last that long — certainly not until the 2027 World Cup, if recent reports are to be believed. By the time the ICC event in South Africa arrives, Rohit will have turned 40, while Kohli will be nearing 39.
With Shubman Gill leading a new generation of energetic and ambitious youngsters, both veterans face mounting challenges from a fresh wave of young talent eager to make their mark. Earlier reports had suggested that the upcoming Australia ODI series could serve as the Ro-Ko farewell, and with the recent leadership transition, that possibility feels stronger than ever — though only time will tell how long the two legends choose to extend their careers.
A contrasting PTI report, however, claims that Kohli might still feature in the 2027 World Cup, citing his unmatched fitness and consistency. Rohit, despite improving his conditioning under Abhishek Nayar’s guidance, might not share the same fortune. The tone of the recent press conference further hinted at tension, as Ajit Agarkar declined to elaborate on his discussions with Rohit and subtly sidestepped questions about India’s World Cup plans — suggesting that the end of an era may indeed be near.
