Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar believes India’s selectors should prioritise the team’s long-term future rather than rely on established stars when planning for the 2027 ODI World Cup. Speaking ahead of India’s ODI series against England, Manjrekar said Rohit Sharma would not be his preferred choice for the World Cup squad, despite the veteran opener’s recent return to the national team.
Rohit has been included in India’s squad for the three-match ODI series against England after scoring 143 runs in three matches against Afghanistan at an average of 47.67. However, Manjrekar argued that with the World Cup still more than a year away, India should invest in younger players capable of serving the team for several more years.
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He acknowledged Virat Kohli’s exceptional fitness and suggested the former captain remains in contention for the tournament. At the same time, Manjrekar stressed that selection decisions should be based on what benefits Indian cricket as a whole rather than individual reputations.
According to the former cricketer, the opening role in ODI cricket should be entrusted to a player in his prime who can contribute over the next five to ten years. While his remarks are likely to spark debate among fans, Manjrekar maintained that the focus should remain on building a strong future for Indian cricket.
India’s squad for the England ODIs also includes Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel and Washington Sundar, while Virat Kohli’s participation remains subject to fitness after recovering from a hamstring injury.
