Rayudu Backs Rohit as India Captain for 2027 ODI World Cup
Former India batter Ambati Rayudu has backed ODI captain Rohit Sharma to continue leading India into the 2027 ODI World Cup. Concerns about age and fitness for Rohit and Virat Kohli have surfaced, as the two will be 40 and 39 respectively when the tournament begins. However, Rayudu insisted Rohit remains India’s best bet to win another ICC title.
Rayudu pointed out Rohit’s impact earlier this year when he guided India to Champions Trophy glory. Despite a mixed tournament with the bat, Rohit produced a match-winning 76 in the final against New Zealand.
Rayudu on Rohit’s Irreplaceable Role
“You need Rohit Sharma to lead. Looking ahead, the goal is to win the World Cup. At the end of the day, we are all Indians. At that time, the only question is, who can win it for us? That is how you have to approach ICC tournaments. What happens two years later, who becomes what, nobody knows. Nothing is certain. The only thing that matters is, at that time, especially in ICC tournaments, who can win for India? Who can win for the country?”
“If Rohit Sharma, as captain, can win it for us, then Rohit should remain captain. If Rohit makes up his mind, maintains his fitness, and wants to play, then tell me one single person today who can replace him in ODI cricket. What he brings to the table is enormous. Rohit has to play,” Rayudu said on Shubhankar Mishra’s podcast.
Rohit Sharma’s ODI Legacy
Rohit is the second-highest active run-scorer in ODIs with 11,168 runs at an average of 48.76. His tally includes 58 half-centuries and 32 centuries at a strike rate of 92.80.
Kohli’s Crucial Role in 2027 World Cup
Rayudu also emphasized Kohli’s importance in the ODI format, especially in the number three position.
“100%, in my opinion, he (Kohli) should play. Because at number three, to control the middle order, Virat is very important. ODI is a different format, it’s not just about hitting. You have to play the long format and also the short format within it. When it comes to balance, there is no one better than Virat in that format.”
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