‘Just like Messi for Argentina’: Mohammed Kaif convinces Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for 2027 World Cup

India’s Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli (ANI Photo) Amid growing speculation over the ODI futures of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, former India batsman Mohammed Kaif has thrown his weight behind the veteran pair, insisting their experience will be key if India are to challenge for the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.The debate over the placement of Rohit and Virat in India’s World Cup plans has intensified in recent weeks, with reports on social media suggesting that one or both of the senior batsmen could be dropped ahead of the marquee tournament. However, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia recently rubbished rumors that the third ODI against England at Lord’s would be Rohit’s last appearance in the format.Speaking to Cricbuzz, Kaif said that India cannot afford to overlook the experience of Rohit and Virat, especially considering the conditions expected in South Africa.

“India will need Rohit and Virat in South Africa”

Kaif said the 2027 FIFA World Cup will present a completely different challenge compared to previous editions, so the presence of experienced fighters is invaluable.“The 2027 phase will be very important. People are talking about Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma because it will not be an easy World Cup. The conditions will be different, there will be bouncy pitches and India will need both of these players there. We would definitely like them to play as many matches as possible from now and stay in good shape,” said Mohammed Kaif.

He draws Lionel Messi comparisons

Comparing the importance of Rohit and Virat to that of football legend Lionel Messi, Kaif said that veteran players often contribute more than just scoring runs or goals.“Lionel Messi is 39 years old and his team reached the final of the World Cup. He didn’t score in the semi-final but he did get an assist. That brings experience. When you have younger players who can finish the job, experienced players know how to lead them and create chances, so just like Messi is for Argentina, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are for India at the World Cup,” he added. The former Indian batsman added that the value of experience remains the same across sports.“Whether it’s football or cricket, experience plays a huge role. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are considered the greatest players in ODIs, so India will absolutely need them, especially under captain Shubman Gill in South African conditions,” concluded Kaif.