R Ashwin challenges Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli doubters with strong World Cup statement: 'Decide now'

Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has come out strongly in support of Kohli and Rohit amid growing debate over their World Cup futures.

Updated on: Jun 24, 2026, 14:24:15 IST

Written by Aditya Maheshwari

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With one year remaining until the ODI World Cup, India are still searching for their ideal combinations while uncertainty continues to surround the futures of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. The veteran duo have previously expressed their desire to feature in the tournament, especially after stepping away from other formats and shifting their focus to limited-overs cricket. However, Indian cricket has undergone significant changes over the past few years, making long-term selections far from certain.

Ashwin backs Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma for 2027 ODI World Cup. (PTI Images)

Kohli appears to be in a stronger position, having maintained impressive form in ODIs and continued to deliver consistently in the IPL. His performances have reinforced his value to the side and strengthened his case for another World Cup campaign. Rohit, meanwhile, faces a tougher road. Despite his vast experience and leadership credentials, questions remain over his consistency and ability to secure a regular place in the team. With competition for spots increasing, the coming months could prove crucial in determining whether both stalwarts make it to the World Cup squad.

Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has come out strongly in support of Kohli and Rohit amid growing debate over their World Cup futures. Ashwin questioned the basis of the speculation surrounding the veteran duo and stressed the importance of experience in a tournament as demanding as the World Cup in South Africa.

"This speculation about Rohit or Virat is not good. In all honesty, where does the speculation come from? Somewhere, it is in someone's mind that they should not go to the World Cup. I don't know who those people are. Some people will have that doubt, and somebody else wants them to be in the squad. I personally think you need experienced batters to play the World Cup in South Africa," Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

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“Make them feel absolutely comfortable”

He also urged the selectors to take a clear call on the futures of Rohit and Kohli sooner rather than later. He argued that if the team management sees them as part of India's World Cup plans, they should be backed wholeheartedly and given the confidence to prepare without constant scrutiny.

"If you want them, make a decision now, and make them feel absolutely comfortable and confident over the next one year. If you do not make the decision now, it becomes difficult as the same thing will keep coming back after every one or two failures," he added

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Aditya Maheshwari
Aditya Maheshwari is a Chief Content Producer and sports journalist with over seven years of experience covering the sports beat across formats and platforms. A cricket-first reporter by profession, he also follows football closely and considers it an integral part of his sporting journey. His work is shaped by a strong on-ground understanding of the game and an ability to translate match-day moments into clear, engaging stories that connect with readers across digital audiences. Over the years, he has developed a balanced approach that combines factual accuracy with narrative clarity, ensuring that both breaking developments and deeper insights are presented with context. Aditya has reported from the field at several major tournaments, including the ICC Cricket World Cup, the Indian Premier League, and the Indian Super League. First-hand coverage of these events has strengthened his ability to read the pulse of high-pressure contests, whether through live reporting, post-match analysis, or long-form storytelling. Working closely around teams, venues, and evolving storylines has helped him develop a strong sense of timing and editorial judgment. While cricket remains his primary focus, Aditya regularly reports on football and keeps a close watch on other sports such as tennis, hockey, and badminton. His wide-ranging interest allows him to approach stories with broader perspective, understanding how different sporting ecosystems function and evolve. Comfortable in fast-paced digital newsrooms, Aditya is well-versed in modern sports coverage, from live blogs and real-time updates to in-depth analysis and audience-focused storytelling. He believes in keeping sports writing simple, accurate, and grounded, with emphasis on clarity over complexity. At the core of his work lies a commitment to credible reporting and telling stories that go beyond the numbers on the scoreboard, highlighting the people, preparation, and pressure behind every performance.Read More

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