Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has sparked a fresh debate over Rohit Sharma’s future in One-Day Internationals. While Rohit has been selected for India’s upcoming ODI series against England, Manjrekar feels the team should start preparing for the 2027 ODI World Cup with younger players.
The 2027 World Cup is still more than a year away, and questions remain over whether Rohit can maintain his fitness and form until then. With youngsters like Yashasvi Jaiswal pushing for opportunities, competition for the opening spot is becoming stronger.
Manjrekar says India should think about the future
During a discussion on Sony Sports, Manjrekar was asked whether he sees Rohit Sharma playing in the 2027 World Cup.
The former batter admitted his opinion could be controversial but said team selection should always be based on what benefits Indian cricket in the long run.
“I know this will become controversial, but I don’t really care. We are already in the middle of 2026, and the World Cup is in late 2027. India have plenty of options,” Manjrekar said.
He added that decisions should not be based only on a player’s reputation.
“We keep thinking about Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Instead, we should think about what is best for Indian cricket,” he explained.
Opening role should go to a player in his prime
Manjrekar believes the opening position in ODI cricket should be handed to someone who can serve India for many more years.
He argued that the role is ideal for a younger cricketer who is entering his peak and can become a long-term asset.
“Opening in 50-over cricket is a great role. I think that opportunity should go to a player who is in his prime and has another five to ten years ahead of him,” he said.
According to Manjrekar, if selectors focus only on Rohit Sharma, they could miss the chance to prepare India’s next generation of stars.
“In that space, Rohit Sharma would not be my choice for the squad,” he added.
Virat Kohli still gets Manjrekar’s backing
Although Manjrekar questioned Rohit’s place, he had positive words for Virat Kohli.
He said Kohli’s outstanding fitness gives him a stronger chance of remaining part of India’s plans until the 2027 World Cup.
“Virat Kohli, with his sheer fitness, is making a strong case,” Manjrekar said.
India announce experienced ODI squad
Despite the debate, Rohit Sharma remains an important part of India’s ODI setup and has been included in the squad for the England series.
The squad also marks the return of Virat Kohli, who missed the Afghanistan series because of a hamstring injury.
Fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah returns to strengthen the pace attack alongside Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, and Gurnoor Brar.
India have selected KL Rahul and Ishan Kishan as the wicketkeepers, while Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar will lead the spin department.
Sunil Gavaskar excited about India’s young talent
Batting legend Sunil Gavaskar believes the England tour offers an excellent opportunity for India’s young players to learn from experienced stars.
He said the combination of senior cricketers and emerging talent could help India build a strong team for the future while continuing to compete at the highest level.
With the 2027 ODI World Cup approaching, discussions over India’s ideal squad are expected to continue. Rohit Sharma’s performances in the coming months could play a major role in determining whether he remains part of those long-term plans.