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“Experience Is Very Important…”: Raina Makes Bold Prediction On Rohit-Kohli’s ODI Future

Poulomi Chakraborty

Raina On Rohit Kohli's ODI future (Source: @SPORTYVISHAL/x.com, @ccl/x.com)Raina On Rohit Kohli's ODI future (Source: @SPORTYVISHAL/x.com, @ccl/x.com)

As their glittering careers near twilight, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli now focus solely on the 50-over format. As they have set their sight on the 2027 ODI World Cup, speculation continues over their participation. 

As their ODI future is yet to be finalized, former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina firmly stood behind them. Reflecting on their experience, Raina backed their presence in the ODI squad.

 When Experience Speaks Volumes

Over the years, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have been the strongest pillars of Team India’s batting lineup. After hanging up their boots from the T20Is and Test, they are set to focus only on ODIs. As India eyes a transition, questions loom over whether the two stalwarts, who will be in their late 30s, will feature in the 2027 ODI World Cup.

As their future is raising concerns, former Indian all-rounder Suresh Raina supported Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s place in the ODI fixture. In an interview with Telecom Asia Sport, Raina said the duo’s decade-long experience in the number 1 and 3 positions will be crucial for the side.

“India don’t have dependable players at No. 1 and No. 3 (in ODIs) at the moment, especially when chasing. Rohit and Virat’s experience is very important. It’s crucial for the seniors to stay involved with the juniors. Shubman (Gill) has done really well, but he needs players like Virat and Rohit,” Raina said.

Leadership Will Guide India Towards Glory

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli played their last international game in the Champions Trophy 2025, and Team India lifted the trophy under Hitman’s leadership. Since 2020, Virat Kohli has been the second-highest run scorer for India, and Rohit Sharma is standing on fourth position on the list. Praising their legacy, Suresh Raina insisted that these icons must remain a part of the dressing room.

“They have won the Champions Trophy, they have won the World Cups. Virat won the last IPL also. For the astute leadership they have shown during their respective careers, they need to be part of the dressing room,” he added.

Being absent from the cricket field for a long time, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are returning to the field in the upcoming ODI series against Australia in October 2025. As their future is yet to be decided, fans are eagerly waiting for their return.