End of an Era? Ex-England Star Says Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli Won’t Play 2027 World Cup
Ex-England cricketer David Gower predicts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma may not feature in the 2027 World Cup as Shubman Gill begins a new era as India’s ODI captain ahead of the Australia series.
In what marks the beginning of a new chapter for Indian cricket, Shubman Gill has officially replaced Rohit Sharma as India’s ODI captain ahead of the upcoming three-match series against Australia.
Shreyas Iyer has been appointed as vice-captain, while veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli remain part of the squad for now.
The change, announced shortly after India’s Test win over the West Indies, is being seen as part of a larger transition plan with an eye on the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa.
Former India cricketer Madan Lal backed the selectors’ call, calling it a “forward-looking” move. “This is an excellent decision by the selectors. Making Gill captain is a step towards the future. He’s matured as a player and will now get the right exposure before the 2027 World Cup,” Lal said.
Lal also added that it would be fascinating to see how Rohit Sharma performs under Gill’s captaincy. “He has already proved his leadership skills in Test cricket and came close to breaking Don Bradman’s record against England. Gill is the future, and the selectors have made that clear.”
Meanwhile, former England captain David Gower gave a more blunt take on India’s leadership transition. “I don’t see Rohit and Virat playing in the 2027 World Cup,” Gower told Cricket Predicta. “Pant might return if fit, but the focus will be on young players like Gill. This is his time to lead India into a new era.”
