Back Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli or move on: Yuvraj Singh’s strong message for BCCI

Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh has urged the BCCI and the team management to give Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli absolute clarity on their ODI futures, insisting that players of their stature deserve to know if they will remain part of India’s 2027 World Cup plans.

Speaking to JioStar during the third ODI between India and England at Lord’s, Yuvraj said the uncertainty surrounding the two batting greats reminded him of the final years of his own international career when he felt he was left in the dark about his role in the side.

Also Read: IND vs ENG: Shubman Gill breaks silence on Rohit retirement rumors after Lord’s hundred

“I have been in the position that Rohit and Virat are in. So it is not fair for us to judge whether they should play. That has to be decided by the team management, the coach and the selectors,” Yuvraj said.

The former India star emphasized that if the selectors want Rohit and Kohli to continue till the next World Cup, they need to communicate the decision clearly and support them through the difficult phases.

“If you want them to play in the World Cup, you have to put your hand on their shoulders and say, ‘Guys, we want you to play in the World Cup. We’re supporting you all the way. Go out there and be yourself. There’s no stress that tomorrow if you don’t have a good run, you’re not going to be in the team,'” he added.

YUVRAJ CALLS ON THE SELECTORS TO INTRODUCE ROHIT, VIRAT

The debate over the future of Rohit and Kohli has intensified in recent months. Questions over Rohit’s future resurfaced during India’s tour of England, although BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia was quick to dismiss reports suggesting the Lord’s ODI could be his last appearance in Indian colours.

Reflecting on his own experience, Yuvraj said the uncertainty can put undue burden on senior players who have put in years with the national team.

“You have to be clear from the coach, the captain and the selectors, whoever it is. Because I wasn’t so clear and I thought it was not good for someone who has represented India for so many years,” he said.

The 44-year-old also urged the selectors to be honest as India progress to the next World Cup cycle.

“And if someone isn’t in your plans, be honest with them. It’s going to be hard, it might look bad on the outside, but they’ll appreciate you telling them to their face.”

On Sunday, Rohit scored 138 off 110 balls, hitting 17 fours and five sixes, but India slumped to a 27-run defeat to concede the three-match series 1-2. However, the visitors would be relieved to see their captain return to form after crushing outings in Birmingham and Cardiff.

– The end

Issued by:

sabyasachi chowdhury

Published on:

20 Jul 2026 13:50 IST