Rohit Sharma Unlikely For 2027 World Cup; Players Who Could Be Nurtured To Replace Him

Players who could replace Rohit [Source: AFP Photo]

The Indian cricket fans have enjoyed Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's batting for the last 17 years, but perhaps, the time has come to bid adieu to them as the two star players could soon be replaced in the ODI format. As per reports from Dainik Jagran , Kohli, and Rohit's place in the ODI squad for the 2027 World Cup is uncertain, and the duo have to play Vijay Hazare Trophy to justify their place.

The Indian team management are perhaps looking for a change in the top order, and if Rohit Sharma relinquishes his ODI captaincy, and decides to retire, here are 3 players who could potentially replace him at the opening slot alongside Shubman Gill.

1) Yashasvi Jaiswal

Perhaps the easiest, and the right choice to replace Rohit Sharma at the top of the order. Yashasvi Jaiswal has played just one ODI match in his career, but it almost fits right to have him replace fellow Mumbaikar Rohit. Jaiswal may not have the numbers to justify his selection, since he has played just a solitary game, but he has the skillset to survive in any format.

In Tests, Jaiswal has played 24 Tests in 24 different venues, and he has done extremely well. This showcases his ability to play in different conditions, a trait which he could use at the top in ODIs. Plus, with Gill being the right-handed opener, India might need a lefty to compliment him.

2) KL Rahul

A very slim chance, but KL Rahul could be someone who gets promoted to the opening slot to bat alongside Gill. The Karnataka batter has prior experience of opening the batting, and he did that during the 2019 World Cup as well. 

(KL Rahul opening stats)

As the table suggests, KL opened in 23 innings and has had tremendous stats, nearly scoring 1000 runs, at an average of 43.57, with 3 centuries. However, he mostly opened the innings when either Shikhar Dhawan, or Rohit Sharma used to get injured. But now with Rohit unlikely to play, India could once again try, and promote KL at the top.

3) Ruturaj Gaikwad

Excellent technique, composed nature, and impeccable timing of the ball, Ruturaj Gaikwad has all the tools to succeed in the ODIs. However, the emergence of Gill slowed down his progress, but if Rohit doesn't get a place in the World Cup 2027, the Maharashtra batter could be a great choice.

(Gaikwad List-A stats)

Gaikwad has a stunning List-A record, with 4324 runs, at an average of 56.15. His initial few ODI matches might not have gone according to the plan, but if given a proper run, Gaikwad could be the answer to become 

---

ALSO READ

Virat Kohli's Retirement Rumour: 3 Stars India Should Groom At No. 3 for 2027 ODI World Cup

---