The year 2025 turned out to be one of the most challenging phases of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s illustrious career. Over the course of the year, the senior batsmen came under constant scrutiny, with critics questioning their age, form and commitment to the game. However, the duo refused to be swayed by the mounting pressure and repeatedly silenced their naysayers with timely performances.
Kohli and Rohit played pivotal roles in India’s Champions Trophy triumph. Kohli made a match-winning century against Pakistan, followed by a decisive 84 in the semi-final against Australia. Rohit, meanwhile, made his mark in the final with a brilliant 76 off 83 deliveries to start India’s chase and win the Man of the Match award in the summit clash.
The pair returned to international cricket after a five-month break but found it difficult to hit top gear immediately during the ODI series in Australia. As their early struggles continued, speculation about their future only grew. However, the veteran batsmen responded in emphatic fashion and asserted their authority with a memorable partnership in the final ODI of the series.
While Rohit was named Player of the Series in Australia, Kohli claimed the award during the domestic season. Although the duo managed to make it through 2025 amid lingering questions As for their longevity, the buzz around their place in the side is only set to intensify in 2026 with the 2027 ODI World Cup fast approaching.
The control will only increase in 2026
India are scheduled to play only a handful of ODIs in 2026And with young talent flourishing in domestic cricket, Kohli and Rohit will once again be under pressure to justify their selection. Each setback is likely to fuel further debate about their future with the team.
The batting stalwarts offered glimpses of their prime with stellar knocks in Australia and at home. However, maintaining that level of consistency in the twilight of their respective careers will be a herculean task.
Adding to the challenge is the fact that the 2027 World Cup will be played on the fast and tough pitches of South Africa. With both batsmen approaching 40 – a stage when reflexes tend to wane – the road ahead promises to be tougher. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma had a great series against South Africa (PTI Photo)
That said, there is no questioning the caliber and class of both players to adapt and face whatever is thrown at them. Both Kohli and Rohit have shown immense determination to remain match-ready and have worked tirelessly on their fitness to meet modern demands. They have also shown a willingness to evolve and have adopted a more adventurous approach at the crease to keep pace with current batting trends.
While their commitment cannot be doubted, cricket remains a ruthless sport where failure is inevitable – and often decisive. A similar fate befell Shikhar Dhawan in 2022. After leading India as stand-in captain on the tour of New Zealand in the absence of Rohit Sharma, Dhawan featured in the subsequent series against Bangladesh, which turned out to be his last.
How long can the next generation wait?
Ishan Kishan’s stunning double century, followed by another double century from Shubman Gill against New Zealand, effectively brought down the curtains on Dhawan’s international career. The batsman, who was once considered the man of the match in ICC tournaments, found himself out of contention within months. With another World Cup on the horizon, Kohli and Rohit could face a similar crossroads.
In international cricket, careers are often shaped – or ended – by a single innings. Devdutt Padikkal is already knocking on selectors’ doors with his prolific run in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy while Yashasvi Jaiswal has already proved that he is ready to open ODIs as well. If consistency eludes Rohit and Kohli, harsh reality could once again set in for two of India’s greatest batsmen today.
An uncertain path to 2027
As Indian cricket continues its transition into the future, the margin for error for the two senior players is shrinking fast. With limited ODI options in 2026 and an abundance of young talent knocking on the door, every innings will have added significance for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.
Still, writing off the likes of Kohli and Rohit has proved risky in the past. Time and again, they responded to adversity with definitive strikes, fueled by an unparalleled hunger to compete and an elite understanding of their craft. Their ability to adapt, reinvent and rise under pressure remains their greatest asset as they move through the final stages of their international careers.
The road to the 2027 FIFA World Cup will be relentless and sentiment alone will not guarantee longevity. However, if there are two batsmen capable of defying age, conditions and expectations, it is Kohli and Rohit. Whether they retreat on their own terms or are swept away by the relentless onslaught of international cricket, their journey over the next two years will shape not only their legacy but also India’s journey forward in one-day cricket.
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Issued by:
Rishabh Beniwal
Published on:
January 2, 2026
