‘Every game can’t be a test’: Mohammad Kaif’s blunt take on Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and their 2027 World Cup chances – sportingnews.com

Divy Dubey
As India continue their ODI series against Australia, discussions around the long-term future of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have once again picked up. Both veterans failed to perform in the series opener at Perth – Rohit scored just eight runs while Kohli fell for a duck.
This has reignited debates over whether they will still be around for the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa. Former India batter Mohammad Kaif believes the conversation needs more perspective and respect for two modern-day greats.
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Speaking on his YouTube channel, Kaif said he noticed a lack of spark in Rohit’s body language during the first ODI and suggested that both batters might be feeling the strain of constantly having to prove themselves.
“Rohit looked less involved in the last game. The same could happen with Virat since he is no longer captain and might feel he has to prove himself every game. But they are legends – every match can’t be a test for them,” Kaif said.
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He added that if either of them ever felt they weren’t enjoying the game anymore, they would step aside on their own. Kaif also urged the team management to communicate clearly with both players about their importance to the 2027 World Cup plans.
Kaif stressed that even though Rohit and Kohli don’t need to prove their pedigree, they must continue playing regularly – whether in domestic cricket or other tournaments, to stay in form. With both having retired from T20Is and Tests, he pointed out that game time in the ODI format will be limited.
“If Virat wants to play the World Cup, he will have to travel back from England and keep playing in India. You can’t stay sharp without match practice,” Kaif said.
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He added that passion and rhythm would be crucial if the duo truly intend to push for one final World Cup appearance together. With over 25,000 ODI runs between them, Rohit and Kohli remain India’s most bankable names.
But as Kaif highlighted, staying motivated and match-ready – not just reputations, will decide whether they make it to South Africa in 2027.
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Divy Dubey is a content producer for The Sporting News’ India edition. He has a passion for cricket and is an avid fan of football. His work spans culture, media, and digital trends. With a background in research and a curiosity-driven approach, he enjoys crafting thoughtful, engaging stories that invite readers to see everyday topics in a new light.

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