Team India bowling coach backs Rohit & Kohli for 2027 World Cup

India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel has weighed in on the ongoing debate surrounding the 2027 ODI World Cup futures of senior stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. With the tournament still two years away, discussions have intensified about whether the duo will continue long enough — and stay sharp enough — to feature in the mega event across South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe.

Despite the uncertainty, Morkel expressed full confidence that both Rohit and Kohli are capable of making it to 2027, provided they maintain their fitness and commitment. Since returning to international cricket against Australia last month, the pair — now only playing ODIs after stepping away from Tests and T20Is — has faced scrutiny over their limited competitive match time.

Reports have also indicated that they may be encouraged to participate in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy ahead of the New Zealand series to stay in rhythm with international standards.

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Rohit, who was named Player of the Series against Australia thanks to a fifty and a century, did appear rusty in the first ODI. Kohli, meanwhile, endured two consecutive ducks before bouncing back with an unbeaten 74 in Sydney.

Speaking ahead of the opening ODI against South Africa, Morkel emphasised that high-pressure tournaments demand experience — something both players possess in abundance.

“They’re top-class cricketers. As long as they’re willing to put in the work and maintain their fitness, experience like theirs is invaluable,” Morkel said. “They’ve won big tournaments, they understand how to handle pressure. If they feel mentally and physically ready, even though the World Cup is still far away, they absolutely can be part of it.”