Kris Srikkanth backs Rohit Sharma to play the ODI World Cup 2027
Rohit Sharma’s relentless dedication to improving his game and fitness ahead of the recent three-match ODI series against Australia proved highly rewarding. The veteran Indian opener displayed remarkable form throughout the series, amassing 202 runs in three innings at an astonishing average of 101. His consistency and composure under pressure earned him the Player of the Series award, even though India ultimately lost the closely contested series 1–2. Rohit’s performance served as a reminder of his enduring class and ability to dominate world-class bowling attacks, reaffirming his reputation as one of the finest ODI batters of his generation.
His exceptional run of form also led to a significant personal milestone. On Wednesday, October 29, Rohit Sharma ascended to the top of the ICC ODI batting rankings, overtaking Shubman Gill to claim the No. 1 position. In doing so, he achieved a historic landmark, becoming the oldest cricketer ever to reach the summit of the ODI rankings at 38 years and 183 days. This achievement underscores his longevity, discipline, and unwavering passion for the sport. For fans and teammates alike, Rohit’s resurgence stands as an inspiring example of perseverance, professionalism, and the timeless power of experience in modern cricket.
"It shows that age alone shouldn't be a deciding factor. Rohit Sharma is still fit, which is why he performed brilliantly in the 2023 World Cup and 2025 Champions Trophy. Look at MS Dhoni even now, how fit he is at 44. Even today, look at the way he is keeping and running between the wickets. Can anyone else keep wickets like Dhoni at this age? Impossible. His stumpings are still lightning fast. So it's only a question of fitness," stated Kris Srikkanth.
"The ranking is a giveaway that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will definitely play the 2027 World Cup. The top three is surely going to be Rohit, Virat and Shubman Gill (because all three in the top six in the rankings)," he added.
Former India captain Kris Srikkanth emphasized that mental fitness holds greater importance than physical fitness in modern cricket. According to him, while maintaining physical strength and stamina is crucial, it is a player’s mental resilience, focus, and composure under pressure that truly define success at the highest level. Srikkanth pointed out that cricket is as much a mental battle as it is a physical one, with players constantly required to make smart decisions, adapt to changing situations, and handle the emotional highs and lows of the game.
He went on to praise stalwarts like MS Dhoni, Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli, who continue to defy age and expectations through their mental toughness and unyielding determination. Despite the demanding nature of international cricket, these seasoned players have maintained their competitive edge and continue to perform at the top level against the best in the world. Srikkanth noted that their longevity and consistency are clear examples of how strong mental conditioning can extend a player’s career and enhance performance. He concluded by asserting that while fitness levels can be maintained through training, it is the power of the mind that ultimately separates great players from the rest in the pressure-filled world of cricket.
"One is physical fitness but the other is mental fitness. Being mentally fit is the most important. That's where I like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and even MS Dhoni. Mentally, they are still fit and want to prove it to the world by winning matches for the team. That's why they are great cricketers," said Srikkanth.
