‘Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma Are India’s Messi’: Mohammed Kaif Makes Bold 2027 World Cup Remark

Mumbai: Former India batter Mohammed Kaif has strongly backed the inclusion of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in India’s squad for the 2027 ODI World Cup, comparing the veteran duo to football legend Lionel Messi and highlighting the importance of experience in major tournaments.

With questions continuing over whether Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will feature in India’s plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia, Kaif said the tournament’s challenging conditions make the experienced pair indispensable.

Kaif Backs Kohli And Rohit For 2027 World Cup

Both Kohli and Rohit retired from Test cricket last year and now represent India only in the ODI format. Their limited international schedule has led to debates over whether they can maintain their fitness and form ahead of the global event.

The two veterans returned to domestic cricket, representing Delhi and Mumbai respectively in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, before making their way back into the Indian side. Despite that, speculation has continued, with recent reports suggesting Rohit could be phased out before the World Cup.

Speaking on Cricbuzz, Kaif dismissed those concerns and stressed that India’s success in South African conditions will depend on the presence of both senior batters.

“The 2027 phase will be very important. People are talking about Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma because it won’t be an easy World Cup. The conditions will be different, there will be bouncy pitches, and India will need both these players there. We would definitely want them to play as many matches as possible from now on and remain in good form,” Kaif said.

Kaif Uses Lionel Messi To Make His Point

To underline the value of experience, Kaif cited Lionel Messi and his influence on Argentina’s run to the FIFA World Cup 2026 final.

According to Kaif, although Messi did not score in the semifinal, his experience was reflected through his two assists, allowing younger players to shine.

“Lionel Messi is 39 years old and his team has reached the FIFA World Cup final. He didn’t score in the semifinal but provided two assists. That’s what experience brings. When you have younger players who can finish the job, experienced players know how to guide them and create opportunities. So just like Messi is for Argentina, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma is for India in World Cup,” he said.

Experienced Duo Key Under Shubman Gill

Kaif concluded by saying that India’s chances of lifting a third ODI World Cup would improve significantly if Kohli and Rohit continue alongside young captain Shubman Gill.

“Whether it’s football or cricket, experience plays a huge role. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are considered among the greatest ODI players, so India will 100 per cent need them, especially under captain Shubman Gill in South African conditions,” he added.

Kohli In Form, Rohit Yet To Find Rhythm

Virat Kohli has enjoyed an impressive run in ODIs this year, scoring 310 runs in five matches at an average of 62 and a strike rate of 102.33.

Rohit Sharma, meanwhile, has endured a comparatively lean patch, accumulating 241 runs in eight matches at an average of 30.12 with a strike rate of 88.6.

Despite Rohit’s recent struggles, Kaif believes the experience and leadership of both veterans could prove crucial as India prepares for the 2027 ODI World Cup.

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