Rohit–Kohli Can Still Make 2027 World Cup, Says Morkel
- By Thetripurapost Desk, New Delhi
- Nov 28, 2025
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In a strong endorsement of India’s senior-most cricketers, Team India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel expressed confidence that former captains Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli can remain active in international cricket long enough to feature in the 2027 ODI World Cup — provided their bodies and minds continue to support the workload.
Speaking after India’s practice session in Ranchi on Friday, Morkel said experience remains an invaluable asset in global tournaments and cannot be substituted.
“As long as Rohit and Kohli are working hard and fitness supports them, there is no problem. Experience is something you can’t buy,”
Morkel said, responding to questions about the duo’s ODI future.
With Rohit and Kohli having retired from T20Is and Test cricket, their focus is now solely on the 50-over format, prompting speculation about how long they plan to continue. Morkel, who has faced both legends multiple times during his international career for South Africa, believes the 2027 World Cup remains well within reach.
“They have won numerous trophies and played many big tournaments. If they are mentally and physically ready, the 2027 World Cup is not too far away,”
he added.
The Ranchi ODI will mark the first time in nine months that Rohit and Kohli appear together in an international match. Their last joint outing came against England on February 12, 2025, at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
‘Time to Reset’: Morkel on India’s Recent Form
Reflecting on India’s recent performances, Morkel admitted the past fortnight had been “disappointing,” but stressed the importance of using the upcoming ODI series to rebuild momentum.
“We have a chance to reset ourselves… we now have to focus all our energy on ODI cricket. The team has performed well in this format over the years,”
he said.
He also warned that South Africa, buoyed by a recent Test series win, would pose a significant challenge. The shift to white-ball cricket, he noted, brings “a different energy,” but South Africa’s confidence remains high.
Gill and Shreyas Recovering Well
Morkel provided positive updates on the fitness of Test captain Shubman Gill and former captain Shreyas Iyer:
Representing India Comes With Responsibility
Morkel concluded by emphasizing that every match carries weight for India, regardless of format or venue.
“When you wear the Indian jersey, you represent millions. Momentum will return only when we play good white-ball cricket,”
he stated, underlining his focus on rebuilding rhythm inside the dressing room.