‘I don’t think they are finished’:Sanjay Jagdale opens up on Rohit-Virat’s form after Perth defeat; says – ‘2027 World Cup depend on their form and fitness’

After India’s seven-wicket defeat to Australia in Perth, concerns have started to grow about the form of senior players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Both failed to make an impact in the first ODI — Rohit managed just 8 runs off 14 balls, while Kohli was dismissed for a duck after facing eight deliveries. Former BCCI secretary and ex-national selector Sanjay Jagdale believes the duo should return to domestic cricket to maintain their fitness and match sharpness. He said that since both are now focusing only on ODIs, playing regularly in domestic tournaments will help them stay in rhythm and shape. The two returned to international cricket after nearly six months, but their performances have not yet matched expectations. Jagdale urges Rohit-Virat to play domestic tournaments Former selector Sanjay Jagdale opens up on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli after Perth defeat. He said, “I don’t know what’s in their minds, but playing in domestic tournaments will be beneficial for them. Both players’ chances of playing in the 2027 World Cup depend on their form and fitness.” He added that even top players can lose their touch if they are not playing consistently. “If you don’t play regularly, you get rusty. Like what happened with Dhoni in IPL or with Brian Lara and Matthew Hayden. Many players are not the same after retiring from international cricket, which is natural,” Jagdale explained. Jagdale shares his insight on India legends’ 2027 World Cup selection By the time of the 2027 ODI World Cup, Rohit Sharma will be 40 years old, and Virat Kohli will be 38. Jagdale admitted this will be a challenge but still remains hopeful. “I don’t think they are finished, but the 2027 World Cup will completely depend on their fitness. It’s too early to say, but if they continue to perform, they can definitely be in the team,” he said. He pointed out that being a one-format player makes it difficult to stay sharp, comparing it to Shikhar Dhawan’s case, who lost his ODI spot soon after captaincy. Also read: ‘Collect Asia Cup Trophy from ACC Office’: Mohsin Naqvi slams BCCI for ‘petty politics’, wants to host presentation ceremony again in November Gill’s leadership a positive sign for Indian cricket Talking about Shubman Gill’s new role as ODI captain, Jagdale said, “Rohit has been a fantastic captain and an excellent white-ball player. Change of captain is a natural transition. It’s not wrong for selectors to think ahead.” He praised Gill’s confidence, saying, “Gill played a brilliant series against England. One learns while captaining, but the start has been very good. Drawing the series after losing the first Test is a good sign.” Also read: Mumbai Indians eye Ishan Kishan’s return ahead of IPL mini-auction: Kolkata Knight Riders, Rajasthan Royals reach out Sunrisers Hyderabad for trade deal – Report Sanjay’s comment on Asia Cup Trophy Controversy Jagdale also commented on the Asia Cup trophy controversy, saying, “Pakistan Cricket Board President Mohsin Naqvi is insisting on personally handing over the trophy to India. This has never happened before. Either you withdraw from the tournament or play with sportsmanship.” Meanwhile, India’s batting coach Sridharan Kotak (mentioned as Seetanshu Kotak) defended the senior players, saying, “We are not worried about their form. They are in good rhythm and will perform well in the next matches. We regularly get updates and videos from the National Cricket Academy about their preparation and fitness.”