Former India selector Sandeep Patil has said he does not foresee major problems for the Indian team if Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli eventually make way for the next generation, pointing to the country’s strong bench strength.
Rohit and Kohli currently play only ODI cricket after stepping away from the T20I and Test formats. Both veterans remain part of India’s plans in the 50-over format, with expectations that they could continue until the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
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However, their future remains dependent on several factors, including their fitness, form and willingness to continue playing. Patil said the decision ultimately rests with the two players, while selectors must simultaneously plan for a smooth transition.
“It is up to these two players. Will they want to continue playing? Will they be able to maintain their fitness? What is the selectors’ strategy? Are the selectors looking ahead?” Patil said in an interaction with SportsNext.
The former selector stressed that Indian cricket must always identify players capable of stepping into important roles when established stars are no longer part of the team.
“Along with the current players, we always have to consider whether we have someone strong enough to replace them if the time comes for them to be left out of the team,” he said.
Patil, however, pointed to India’s depth as a reason for confidence about the team’s future.
“And considering the Indian team’s bench strength, which…I don’t think there will be any problems, whether Virat or Rohit are in the team or not,” he added.
Rohit and Kohli have been central figures in Indian cricket for more than a decade. Both have accumulated significant international records and played key roles across multiple ICC tournaments.
With the 2027 ODI World Cup still on the horizon, the focus will remain on how the two experienced batters perform in the format and whether they continue to meet the demands of international cricket.
Their presence also provides India with experience while younger players are gradually introduced into the ODI setup. At the same time, selectors have the task of identifying and developing potential successors well before a transition becomes necessary.
Patil’s comments underline that the discussion around Rohit and Kohli’s future is not simply about replacing two senior players. It is also about ensuring India’s next generation is prepared when the time comes.
For now, the final decision remains with the players, their fitness and form, as well as the selectors’ long-term planning. With India’s considerable pool of talent, Patil believes the team can manage the transition whenever it eventually takes place.
