The ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027 is still more than a year away, but discussions around India’s potential squad have already started gaining momentum. The tournament, which will be hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia, is expected to be another major challenge for the Indian team, with the selectors likely to weigh a combination of youth, form and experience before finalising their plans.

One of the biggest questions surrounding India’s 2027 campaign is the future of Rohit Sharma. While the veteran opener continues to remain a hugely influential figure in Indian cricket, there has been considerable debate over whether he should be guaranteed a place in the World Cup squad. Former India batter Ajinkya Rahane, however, believes there should be no uncertainty surrounding Rohit’s selection.

Ajinkya Rahane backs Rohit Sharma for 2027 World Cup

Rahane believes India should make their intentions clear to Rohit rather than assessing his position after every bilateral series. According to the former India batter, the contribution Rohit has made to Indian cricket over the years makes his experience particularly valuable in a major tournament. Speaking about Rohit’s future, Rahane said the team management should simply tell the veteran batter that he is part of India’s plans for the 2027 World Cup.

“I think it’s important to tell Rohit Sharma that he’s going to play the 2027 World Cup. If you see his contribution throughout so many years, it’s been amazing. So you need the experience of such a player in the World Cup,” Rahane said, as quoted by Hindustan Times.

The former India captain also argued that Rohit’s position should not be repeatedly discussed after every series. In his view, giving an experienced player certainty can allow him to concentrate completely on his cricket. Rahane added that a decision should not be taken on a series-by-series basis when dealing with a player of Rohit’s stature.

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Rhythm could be crucial for Rohit

One of the key points raised by Rahane was the importance of rhythm in cricket. He explained that players, irrespective of their experience, need consistency and a clear mind to perform at their best. Rahane believes repeatedly questioning Rohit’s place in the team could create unnecessary uncertainty. Instead, he feels the veteran should know that he has the backing of the management and can prepare specifically for the World Cup.

“If you treat a big player like that, because as I said, it’s about rhythm. Cricket is about rhythm. No matter how many matches you’ve played, whether you’re a youngster or an experienced player in the team, it’s about rhythm. If your mind is free, you can play with that mindset,” he said.

Rahane also insisted that there is little point debating Rohit’s quality given everything he has achieved during his international career.

“As for Rohit’s quality, there’s no need to even speak about it. Such experience is needed in the team, so this debate shouldn’t even happen between the team management and the captain. Agar unko khelna hai 2027 World Cup, toh unko khelna hai,” Rahane added.

With the 2027 World Cup approaching, Rohit’s form and fitness will inevitably remain important factors. However, Rahane’s comments make one thing clear: he believes India’s planning should include the experienced opener from the outset rather than leaving his World Cup future uncertain until the final stages.

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