There are constant questions about whether Virat Kohli will participate in the 2027 World Cup. However, Rajkumar Sharma, Virat's childhood coach, believes that this issue should not be discussed. In his opinion, Virat's current performance on the field provides a clear picture.
Speaking at an event by the Delhi District Cricket Association (DDCA) and in an interview with 'India Today', Rajkumar Sharma stated that the decision regarding Virat's plans for the 2027 World Cup must be based on observing his play. He emphasized that players should independently assess what Virat is doing in recent matches and how he performs on the field, making discussions on this matter unnecessary.
Sharma noted that Virat is undoubtedly an outstanding athlete capable of changing the course of a match single-handedly on his best days.
Rajkumar Sharma expressed a similar view regarding Rohit Sharma. The 39-year-old Rohit is also under scrutiny due to his future in the ODI format. Nevertheless, Rohit's statistics after the Champions Trophy do not look weak: he scored 727 runs in 15 matches with an average of 51.92, including two centuries. The century Rohit scored at Lord's in July temporarily reduced discussions about his possible retirement, providing answers to questions about his future.
While Rohit's future is uncertain, Rajkumar Sharma shows confidence in Virat not only because of his current form. He has observed Virat's journey since childhood, being part of his story for over 25 years. According to Sharma, Virat has always possessed self-confidence from the beginning and never shied away from hard work. He called Virat's work ethic one of his main strengths.
The coach asserted that Virat was made for cricket. He believed that Virat had a God-given talent, but turning that talent into the game of a great athlete largely depended on his discipline and effort.
Recalling his old relationship with Virat, he shared that he witnessed his journey from the first visit to his club. Rajkumar also remembered the period when Virat became captain, noting that they both still recall those times. When Virat became captain, Rajkumar said he never thought they would reach such a level. For him, this entire journey is very touching and memorable.
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will get another chance to answer these questions on the field. The ODI series against West Indies begins on September 27. Three ODI matches will be played between the two teams within 10 days. Both experienced batsmen will be under close observation. This series will be not just an opportunity to score runs, but also a chance to solidify their place in the 2027 World Cup picture.
After this, India will play five ODI matches in New Zealand from November 4 to 15. Then, in December, India will visit Sri Lanka, where the teams will play three ODI matches.
Arguments in favor of Virat are also supported by his statistics. After the 2025 Champions Trophy, Virat Kohli is the batsman who has scored the most runs in ODIs for India. During this period, he scored 760 runs in 12 matches with an average of 76. He scored 3 centuries and 5 half-centuries. Thus, Virat's return to ODIs is based not only on reputation; his statistics also speak in his favor. Rajkumar Sharma considers him an outstanding player and a match winner.