Rohit Sharma's 2027 World Cup Future Will Divide Opinions, Says Sanjay Manjrekar

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has questioned whether Rohit Sharma should be part of India's plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup, arguing that the team management must prioritise the country's long-term future over individual reputations. His comments come after Rohit was named in India's squad for the upcoming ODI series against England, reigniting debate over the veteran opener's role as the next 50-over World Cup approaches.

Speaking on Sony Sports, Manjrekar acknowledged that his opinion could spark controversy but insisted that team selection should be based on what best serves Indian cricket. With the 2027 World Cup still more than a year away, he said selectors must look beyond established stars and consider players who can contribute over a longer period. "I think India have options. Virat Kohli, with his sheer fitness, is making a strong case. But when we select, we should think about what is best for Indian cricket," Manjrekar said.

The former cricketer also suggested that the opening slot in One-Day Internationals should be entrusted to a younger player entering the prime of his career rather than someone nearing the twilight of theirs. Referring to emerging talents such as Yashasvi Jaiswal, Manjrekar said India should invest in players capable of serving the team for another five to ten years. He added that, from a long-term planning perspective, Rohit Sharma would not be his preferred choice in the squad for the 2027 World Cup.

Also Read: Ex-India Star Guarantees Virat Kohli And Rohit Sharma Will Play 2027 World Cup

Despite the debate surrounding his future, Rohit has been retained in India's ODI squad for the England series beginning next month. The squad also marks the return of senior players Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah. Kohli returns after recovering from a hamstring injury that ruled him out of the Afghanistan series, while Bumrah will spearhead the pace attack alongside Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana and Gurnoor Brar. KL Rahul and Ishan Kishan have been selected as wicketkeeping options, with Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel and Washington Sundar forming the spin department.

Batting great Sunil Gavaskar described the England tour as an important opportunity for India's next generation to gain experience alongside seasoned campaigners. The series is expected to provide valuable insights into the team's transition strategy as selectors continue to balance experienced stars with emerging talent ahead of major ICC tournaments.

With the 2027 ODI World Cup drawing closer, discussions over squad composition are likely to intensify. While Rohit Sharma remains one of India's most accomplished white-ball cricketers, Manjrekar's remarks have once again highlighted the challenge facing selectors as they weigh experience against future planning in building a squad capable of competing for another global title.

Also Read: Former India Star Backs BCCI Stance, Says Selections Must Prioritise Team Needs First