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“I will take the guarantee of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma…”: Ex-India star’s bold 2027 World Cup claim sparks massive debate
Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif backs veteran duo Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to stay crucial for India’s 2027 ODI World Cup plans, dismissing retirement talks.
In a statement that has quickly grabbed headlines across the cricketing world, former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has made a powerful and confident prediction about India’s future in ODI cricket. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Kaif openly backed two of India’s biggest modern legends—Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma—to remain central figures in India’s squad for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
With growing discussions around whether the experienced duo should gradually make way for younger talent, Kaif’s comments have added a fresh twist to the debate. He didn’t just support their inclusion—he went a step further and said, “I will take the guarantee of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.”
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Kaif especially highlighted Rohit Sharma’s fitness discipline and his evolving batting mindset. According to him, the Indian captain is still pushing himself hard to stay at the top level, both physically and mentally.
“Rohit is working on his fitness, he will push himself and somehow manage to play. Injury happens to everyone, even to youngsters. He has that passion, the temperament is seen in his batting,” Kaif said. He also noted that Rohit’s approach as a captain and as a batter has become more controlled and mature over time.
Kaif explained that Rohit is no longer the same aggressive player who goes after every ball blindly. Instead, his game has become more calculated, which could help him extend his career in ODIs.

Beyond individual praise, Kaif also expressed strong optimism about India’s chances in the upcoming global tournament. He believes India will enter the 2027 ODI World Cup as one of the clear favourites, especially if the core of the squad that reached the 2023 World Cup final remains intact.
This continuity, according to him, gives India a strong foundation and experience base—something that often proves crucial in high-pressure ICC tournaments.
As debates continue over India’s transition phase, Kaif’s statement has certainly reignited the conversation: should experience still lead India’s World Cup dream, or is it time for a complete generational shift?
For now, Kaif’s message is clear—do not count out India’s senior duo just yet.
