Rohit Sharma has opened up about his on-field conversations with Virat Kohli, revealing that the discussions between the two experienced India batters are usually focused on the immediate demands of the game rather than the pressure or significance of a World Cup.
With the 2027 ODI World Cup now less than a year away, both Rohit and Kohli are expected to feature in what could be their final 50-over World Cup. Kohli has already represented India in four editions of the tournament, beginning with the 2011 World Cup, while Rohit has featured in multiple editions and led India to the final in 2023.
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Speaking to JioStar ahead of India’s second ODI against the West Indies, Rohit said Kohli does not need to be reminded about the importance of a World Cup because of his extensive experience at the international level.
Rohit explained that conversations between the pair during matches are generally practical. When batting together, they discuss which bowlers to target, when to rotate the strike and how to manage particular situations.
“He has been playing for so many years. Whether it’s the ’27 World Cup or the ’23 World Cup, there’s no need to explain it to him. World Cup is World Cup,” Rohit said.
Kohli has played in the 2011, 2015, 2019 and 2023 ODI World Cups and is set to appear in his fifth edition in 2027. Rohit said that experience means Kohli already understands what is required when playing in a major tournament.
The India captain also gave an insight into the more personal conversations that can take place while the two are batting together. He recalled occasions when he has experienced discomfort while running and has asked Kohli to be careful while completing runs.
“Sometimes something happens to my leg, so I tell him, ‘Brother, run carefully, I’m feeling something,'” Rohit said.
According to Rohit, the relationship between the two has remained largely unchanged despite the years they have spent together in international cricket. He acknowledged that they are different individuals in terms of how they conduct themselves on the field, but said their objectives remain aligned.
“Nothing has changed from when we started to now,” Rohit said.
The veteran opener added that the focus for both players continues to be helping India win matches and tournaments. Whether it is a bilateral series, a major tournament or the World Cup, Rohit said the team’s collective objective remains the same.
For Kohli, the 2027 tournament will mark his fifth ODI World Cup. He was part of India’s victorious 2011 campaign and later featured in the 2015, 2019 and 2023 editions. Rohit, meanwhile, will be looking to add the ODI World Cup title to his international achievements after India finished runners-up on home soil in 2023.
The schedule for the 2027 ODI World Cup is set to be announced on October 1. India are currently involved in a three-match ODI series against the West Indies, with the second match scheduled in Guwahati on September 30.
Rohit’s full interview is scheduled to be available on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network on September 30.
