Former Indian batter and presenter Mohammad Kaif has insisted that the Indian ODI team would require the experience of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the forthcoming ICC Men’s ODI World Cup in 2027 in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
Speaking exclusively on Cricbuzz, Kaif has reckoned that both Kohli and Rohit should play as many ODIs as possible before the mega event to stay in good form. He went on to make a comparison with Argentina’s legendary footballer Lionel Messi.
“The 2027 phase will be very important. People are talking about Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma because it won’t be an easy World Cup,” Mohammad Kaif said on Cricbuzz.
Furthermore, the former cricketer said that Lionel Messi’s experience was key in the ongoing FIFA World Cup semi-final against England as he provided two assists to allow the youngsters in the side to get the job done.
“The conditions will be different, there will be bouncy pitches, and India will need both these players there. We would definitely want them to play as many matches as possible from now on and remain in good form,” he added.
“Lionel Messi is 39 years old and his team has reached the FIFA World Cup final. He didn’t score in the semifinal but provided an (two) assist (s),” he said.
“That’s what experience brings. When you have younger players who can finish the job, experienced players know how to guide them and create opportunities, So just like Messi is for Argentina, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are for India in the World Cup,” he observed.
“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 100 per cent need them, especially under captain Shubman Gill in South African conditions,” Kaif concluded.
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