Why it could be a blessing in disguise for India if Rohit Sharma doesn't get picked for WC 2027

Why no Rohit is a blessing for India [Source: AFP Photo]

The Indian selection panel, led by Ajit Agarkar, has made it clear to both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma - play Vijay Hazare Trophy for future ODI selections. Moreover, after successfully leading India to a Champions Trophy triumph in early 2025, Rohit was also removed from his captaincy and the mantle was given to Shubman Gill.

While Rohit fans do have a reason to get upset as their star was abruptly removed from the captaincy, but if we look at the longer run, and his track record in South Africa, then it might just be a blessing in disguise for India.

Rohit's overall record in South Africa reveals alarm bells for selectors

While the ‘Hitman,’ as they call him, has a stellar record in England, New Zealand, and Australia, for some reason, he tends to struggle on the bouncy wickets of South Africa. The pace of the surface in South Africa have constantly troubled him and the record reveals everything.

(Rohit across formats in South Africa)

• Across all formats, Rohit Sharma has struggled for runs in South Africa, with the Proteas bowlers having his numbers. The struggle was obvious in Tests where he only averages 16.64, and the situation remains the same in ODIs where his average is a mere 19.69.
• He has failed to deliver in South African bouncy wickets, and this is one of the main reasons why the selectors are hesitant regarding his World Cup selection.
• If we solely focus on his ODI record in South Africa, the numbers are dismal, and despite having a great pedigree as a player, Rohit’s future hangs in jeopardy.

Other reasons why the selectors are hesitant about Rohit

Age and fitness also play a crucial part in playing in South African conditions, and Rohit doesn’t have the age on his side. Currently, he is 38, and by the time the World Cup arrives, Rohit will be 40, and with age, reflexes slow down.

The bouncy pitches of Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban require a different level of skillset, and with age, it diminishes.

Moreover, with the arrival of Yashasvi Jaiswal, India is aiming to make him the second-choice opener alongside Shubman Gill, as two young batters will open in South Africa.

Final verdict

On paper, it might seem like a harsh call to remove Rohit and force him to play Vijay Hazare, but the selectors know the truth, and perhaps, they want someone at the top who can adjust to the South African pitches, and they look at Jaiswal as a solid alternative.

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