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‘Virat Also Has to Stay on Top of His Game…’: Ashwin’s Warning Raises Big Questions After Rohit Sharma ODI Exit Reports
Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin believes Virat Kohli cannot take his ODI place for granted, saying recent reports surrounding Rohit Sharma’s future suggest Indian cricket is entering a phase where reputation alone may not guarantee selection.
As speculation over Rohit Sharma’s ODI future continues to dominate Indian cricket, former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has delivered a candid message for Virat Kohli.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin suggested that if the selectors are prepared to move on from a player of Rohit’s stature, Virat Kohli may also need to consistently perform at the highest level to retain his place in India’s ODI squad.
His remarks come amid reports claiming that the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee is planning a transition ahead of the 2027 ICC ODI World Cup, with younger players expected to receive more opportunities over the next two years.
Reports Claim India Could Move Beyond Rohit Sharma
According to media reports, India’s selectors are considering moving forward without Rohit Sharma after the upcoming ODI series against England.
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The reported plan is believed to involve testing younger opening combinations, with Yashasvi Jaiswal emerging as one of the leading candidates to partner Shubman Gill as India prepares for the next World Cup cycle.
While there has been no official confirmation from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding Rohit’s future, the reports have generated widespread debate because the veteran opener has continued to deliver impressive performances in the 50-over format.
Ashwin: “Virat Has to Stay on Top of It”
Reacting to the reports, Ravichandran Ashwin acknowledged Virat Kohli’s excellent recent form but warned that it may not be enough if India’s selectors are determined to prioritise long-term planning.
Ashwin praised Kohli’s batting, saying he has been playing some of the finest cricket of his career. However, he also admitted that the current atmosphere around team selection suggests even senior players cannot afford any dip in performance.
He added that although he hopes Kohli remains an integral part of India’s plans, the discussion surrounding Rohit’s future indicates that every experienced player will be judged on current performances rather than past achievements.
Virat Kohli Continues to Deliver With the Bat
Unlike the uncertainty surrounding the selection debate, Virat Kohli’s performances have remained remarkably consistent.
The former India captain has scored heavily in recent ODI matches, combining composure with an improved scoring rate that has strengthened India’s middle order.
His ability to anchor innings while accelerating when needed continues to make him one of the most dependable batters in world cricket. Even so, Ashwin believes sustained excellence will be essential if experienced players are to remain part of India’s plans through the 2027 ODI World Cup.
India’s Transition Phase Sparks Fresh Debate
Indian cricket appears to be entering an important transition period as selectors balance the experience of established stars with the promise of emerging talent.
While supporters of a younger squad argue that preparations for future ICC tournaments must begin early, others believe proven match-winners like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli still have plenty to offer in the ODI format.
For now, neither the BCCI nor the national selectors have officially announced any decision regarding the futures of either senior batter. Until then, speculation is likely to continue, with every ODI performance carrying added significance as India builds towards the 2027 World Cup.
