IPL chairman Arun Dhumal has asserted that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli should continue playing for as long as they wish, while expressing hope that the team wins the 2027 ODI World Cup as a tribute to the careers of the two veterans.
With both Rohit and Kohli currently active only in the ODI format, Dhumal compared the situation to the 2011 World Cup, when India lifted the trophy for Sachin Tendulkar. Speaking to journalist Vimal Kumar, Dhumal said, “Look at Virat Kohli’s performances across Tests, ODIs and T20Is over the last decade. The way the Indian team came together and won the World Cup for Sachin Tendulkar—given Kohli’s significant contribution not only to Indian cricket but also to world cricket—this Indian team should do the same for him at the 2027 World Cup.”
Dhumal also spoke at length about Rohit Sharma and his journey in international cricket. “Even Rohit Sharma—it took him time to become an integral part of the Test team, but once he took over the captaincy, his performances have been phenomenal. As far as white-ball cricket is concerned, he has been a rockstar. I feel that as long as they want to play and continue performing the way they are now, no questions should be asked about their future,” Dhumal added.
Kohli was part of India’s 2011 World Cup-winning side, while Rohit is still chasing his dream of lifting the 50-over trophy. Both senior players are set to be in action during the upcoming ODI against New Zealand on January 11.
Recently, both former captains also confirmed their availability for selected matches in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy.
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