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"If desire is still there...": Finch sees no reason Rohit and Kohli won't play 2027 World Cup

Akshita Patel

Aaron Finch on Rohit-Kohli's future [Source: @IMManu_18, @CallMeSheri1_/X.com]Aaron Finch on Rohit-Kohli's future [Source: @IMManu_18, @CallMeSheri1_/X.com]

Former Australian captain Aaron Finch believes that age is just a number for Indian legends Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. He feels there’s no reason why they can’t make it to the 2027 ODI World Cup if they keep performing at the highest level.

Both Rohit and Kohli are set to return to India’s ODI setup after more than six months when they take the field against Australia in Perth on Sunday. 

With Shubman Gill taking over as India’s new ODI captain, many fans wondered if this marked the beginning of a transition phase.

Aaron Finch says Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli must eye 2027 World Cup glory

But ex-Australian skipper Aaron Finch feels the senior stars still have a lot to offer. Talking to Hindustan Times, he dismissed the idea that playing domestic cricket is crucial for veterans like Rohit and Kohli to stay relevant.

“I don’t think it necessarily comes down to playing so much domestic cricket. I don’t think that would change their chances or the way they approach it at all. The odd game here or there, just to make sure that they’re ticking over in a competitive environment,” Finch said.

Instead, he pointed out that their discipline and work ethic make all the difference.

“But you know that they’re going to be hitting thousands and thousands of balls behind the scenes, away from the cameras. So, yeah, if the desire is still there, and if the performances are there, there’s no reason why they won’t,” he added.

Both players, now in their late 30s, remain among the fittest and most consistent batters in the world. 

Kohli’s hunger for runs and Rohit’s calm leadership have kept India at the top across formats. With the 2027 World Cup two years away, their form and motivation might decide their destiny in ODIs.

Finch backs India’s ODI captaincy transition

Interestingly, Aaron Finch also praised India’s decision to hand over the ODI captaincy to Shubman Gill, calling it a smart move for long-term planning.

"It’s a great move to get Shubman in at this time. I think it’s important that you’re well and truly into the planning stages, focusing on that 2027 World Cup. So, from my point of view, I think it’s absolutely the right move. He’s a wonderful player; we know that in all formats of the game. He’s in a great space as a player to take over the leadership of a couple of formats of the game,” Finch concluded.

He further mentioned that Gill's composed frame of mind, perseverance, and hunger to learn make him the right player to lead India into the next generation, while experienced stars like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli continue to guide him along the way.