IPL 2026: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli's fight for relevance before 2027 WC
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli face a crucial IPL season, their most visible audition for the 2027 ODI World Cup. With shrinking game-time and increasing selector pragmatism, this tournament is a fitness and form test. They must prove their present-day relevance and endurance to secure a spot, as reputation alone won't suffice for the demanding ODI format.
Quick quiz: Since the first T20 World Cup in 2007, how many players who played only ODI cricket have been part of a 50-over World Cup-winning side? Answer: None. In 2027, across Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe, Rohit and Kohli would love to change that.
Assuming, of course, that they will be picked. Having retired from Tests and T20Is, they now occupy a curious space: giant names, shrinking game-time. Which is why this IPL matters so much.
It is their most visible audition. If both want to convince a team management and selection panel that has become increasingly ruthless and pragmatic, they need to perform over the next eight weeks for Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, respectively. That may sound dramatic.
After all, few players have achieved more. But the road to the 2027 ODI World Cup will not be paved by reputation or old highlights. It will depend on present-day form and fitness.
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