Ex-India Star Makes Big Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli Prediction Ahead Of ODI World Cup 2027

Former Indian cricketer Robin Singh believes Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will be major assets for India at the ODI World Cup 2027 in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia. Rohit and Virat have been in good form in recent ODIs, with the former scoring two centuries and a 92 in his last five innings, while Kohli has struck one century and two fifty-plus scores (74 and 65) in his last five outings. With the World Cup less than a year away, both appear on course to feature in the global showpiece.

Speaking exclusively to IANS, the former India all-rounder said the experience and form of the two former captains would be crucial for the Men in Blue at the World Cup.

"I think experience is one thing. But more importantly, I think it's their form that is important. And of course, with age comes plenty of experience. So that's really not a problem. They know what to do," Robin told IANS.

He said the two batters have done an exceptional job of maintaining their fitness and will be major assets for the team heading into the global showpiece.

"It's more about staying in the moment, staying fit and continuing to play well. I think they are doing that exceptionally well. So there are no complaints. They definitely will be a big asset to the Indian team," he said.

India have experimented with several players in the recent ODI series against the West Indies as they work towards identifying the ideal playing combination for the World Cup. Singh said head coach Gautam Gambhir and his support staff are likely to build their selections around a clear World Cup strategy.

"Look, I think they are trying out as many players as possible. They do have their formula in place. So I am pretty sure Gautam and his team members have a clear formula. I am sure he has a way of approaching the World Cup and knows the type of players he wants for the tournament.

"So I am pretty sure they will try to pick players around that strategy, give them enough opportunities to perform and ensure they have the ability to select the best team before the World Cup," Singh, who played 136 ODIs and one Test for India, said.

India have recalled Bhuvneshwar Kumar to the T20I side for the upcoming tour of New Zealand, and speculation has begun over whether he and Mohammed Shami can force their way into the World Cup plans, especially with the tournament set to be played in seam-friendly conditions.

Singh, who has also coached the erstwhile Deccan Chargers and Mumbai Indians in the IPL, said the two fast bowlers should feature if they remain part of the team management's plans.

"Again, it depends on what they (the team management) want. So if they are in the mix, they should be playing.

"I don't see any surprises happening. But if they are not in the mix, then it becomes difficult," Singh said.

He also praised both bowlers and stressed that they have done enough to earn consideration for a return to the Indian side, with Bhuvneshwar already earning a recall while Shami continues to remain on the sidelines.

"I think these two are excellent bowlers irrespective of their age. I saw Bhuvneshwar Kumar bowling in T20 cricket last year. They have played a lot of domestic cricket as well. And they have actually done enough to give themselves a chance to get back into the side. Both are really good bowlers, excellent bowlers," he said.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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