IND vs SA:"We can’t win without them," Kris Srikkanth orders BCCI to play Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in ICC Cricket World Cup 2027

(Courtesy : BCCI)
Virat Kohli smashed his 52nd ODI century in Ranchi against South Africa.
Former chairman of the selection committee, Kris Srikkanth, has passed his verdict on the role of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in ODI cricket. He wants both modern-day greats to play the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup.
Kohli treated the fans with his delightful 52nd century in ODI cricket in the first game of the series against South Africa on Sunday in Ranchi. Rohit also looked in phenomenal touch, as he completed another half-century to continue his form in the 50-over format.
“There should be no questions asked” – Kris Srikkanth on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli

Kris Srikkanth’s statement reflects the common sentiment among fans regarding the future of Rohit and Virat in ODI cricket. The speculations around their place in the team have caused an uproar, and the team management is facing the heat.
“Kohli and Rohit are playing on another level. Without these two, the 2027 World Cup plans will not work out. You need Rohit at one end and Virat at another. There should be no questions asked,” commented Srikkanth about the future of two former India captains.
Srikkanth hailed the duo for helping India post a massive total in the first innings.
“See in 2013, he said in an interview that since 2013 Rohit and him used to score heavily and take down oppositions. If you look at it, if Rohit and Kohli bat for 20 overs, the opposition is gone. Today, that’s what happened. They were literally batted out. Yes, South Africa fought back well. But, their partnership finished them off,” said Srikkanth.
Also Read: IND vs SA: Who said what after the first ODI in Ranchi
“We can’t win without them” – Kris Srikkanth on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli
Making a bold statement about India’s chances in the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup, Srikkanth said India cannot win the World Cup if Rohit and Virat are not in the team.
“It’s not just the runs. They have worked very hard (on fitness). Virat and Rohit are playing only one format. It’s not easy to maintain your mindset like this when only playing one format.As far as I am concerned, they have sealed their spots for 2027 World Cup. No. 1 and No. 3 slots are all sealed. We can’t win without them,” concluded the former chief selector.
Who was the player of the match in the first ODI against South Africa?
Virat Kohli was the player of the match in the first ODI against South Africa for his 135 runs off 120 balls.
How much did Rohit Sharma score in the first IND vs SA ODI?
Rohit Sharma scored 57 runs off 51 balls at a strike rate of 111.76 in the first IND vs SA ODI.
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Navtej is all about narrating stories of human endeavour shaped by sporting excellence, from 22 yards to lush green pitches and buzzing arenas. With a background in broadcasting, he has a keen eye for compelling narratives that keep readers hooked. He primarily covers football and cricket, capturing the magic of two of the world’s most beloved sports.
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