Suresh Raina Backs Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma Amid ODI Transition Talks
The future of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in India’s ODI setup has been the subject of much debate in recent weeks. Reports have surfaced suggesting that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) selectors might look to phase out the iconic duo after the upcoming ODI series against Australia in October. However, former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina has strongly opposed the idea, insisting that Team India still needs their leadership, stability, and match-winning ability. Suresh Raina backs Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma
The Transition Talks
With both Kohli and Rohit having retired from T20 Internationals and Test cricket earlier this year, speculation has grown that the selectors may also consider moving on from them in the ODI format. The reasoning behind this possible shift is linked to long-term planning for the 2027 ODI World Cup, which is still more than two years away. Suresh Raina backs Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma
By the time the tournament arrives, Kohli will be 38 and Rohit will be 40. For some, this raises concerns over their fitness, agility, and consistency in a format that demands both endurance and adaptability. A few voices within cricket circles believe it might be wiser to groom younger players now, rather than rely on veterans who may not be around for the big event. Suresh Raina backs Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma
Raina’s No-Nonsense Response
Raina, one of India’s most dependable ODI middle-order batsmen during his playing days, has firmly dismissed these transition theories. Speaking to Telecom Asia Sport, he said:
“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, who scored 5615 runs in 226 ODIs and was part of the 2011 World Cup-winning squad, pointed out that the current ODI batting lineup still leans heavily on experience in pressure situations. While younger talents like Shubman Gill have shown promise, he believes the proven reliability of Kohli and Rohit is irreplaceable, especially when India faces strong opposition in must-win games. Suresh Raina backs Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma
Recent Achievements Speak for Themselves
Raina backed his argument by pointing to recent successes involving both players. Earlier this year, India lifted the Champions Trophy 2025, with Kohli scoring 218 runs in the tournament at an average of 54.50, finishing as India’s second-highest run-getter behind Shreyas Iyer. Suresh Raina backs Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma
In the tournament final, Rohit Sharma played a captain’s knock of 76 runs, leading India to their third Champions Trophy title. These performances, Raina argued, prove that the duo still have plenty to offer in high-pressure scenarios. Suresh Raina backs Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma
Leadership and Dressing Room Impact
Beyond the runs and statistics, Raina stressed the value of Kohli and Rohit’s leadership. Both have captained India in ICC tournaments, led their IPL franchises to titles, and have been role models for younger players.
“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,” Raina said. Suresh Raina backs Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma
For a team in transition, the presence of seasoned leaders can help bridge the gap between generations. Youngsters like Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Tilak Varma can benefit immensely from sharing the field — and the dressing room — with two of modern cricket’s greatest batsmen. Suresh Raina backs Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma
The Current Gap in the Calendar
As things stand, fans won’t be seeing Kohli or Rohit in action for the national team until October. India’s cricket calendar for August and September does not feature any ODI matches, giving both players a break before the ODI series against Australia begins on October 19 in Perth. Suresh Raina backs Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma
This gap could work in their favor, allowing them to recharge physically and mentally before the next big assignment. It also gives the selectors time to evaluate their options and decide whether the “transition” should be immediate or gradual. Suresh Raina backs Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma
The Road to the 2027 ODI World Cup
The bigger question remains: Should India focus entirely on preparing for 2027 right now, or should they prioritize winning the tournaments in the next two years with their best available XI?
While long-term planning is important, Raina believes that excluding Kohli and Rohit so early would be a mistake. Cricket is as much about current form as it is about potential, and both veterans have shown they can still dominate at the highest level. Suresh Raina backs Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma
Their experience in chasing big totals, building partnerships under pressure, and guiding the team in crunch moments could be vital in upcoming ICC events before 2027. Suresh Raina backs Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma
The debate over Kohli and Rohit’s ODI futures reflects a broader challenge in cricket — balancing youth development with experienced leadership. Suresh Raina backs Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma
Suresh Raina’s backing of the duo is a reminder that while cricket evolves, the value of proven match-winners should not be underestimated. As India heads into the Australia series in October, all eyes will be on the BCCI selectors to see whether they lean towards continuity or change.
For now, Raina’s message is clear: India still needs Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.
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