Former India cricketer Mohammed Kaif has made a bold declaration about the team's future, asserting that the Men in Blue cannot hope to lift the 2027 ODI World Cup without the legendary duo of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Kaif's comments come on the back of India's thrilling 2-1 series victory over South Africa, sealed in Visakhapatnam on Saturday, where both stalwarts played match-winning roles.
Kohli and Rohit Light Up Series Decider
Chasing a target of 273 in the decisive third ODI, India's innings was built on two pivotal partnerships. Captain Rohit Sharma, shedding his recent ultra-aggressive approach, anchored the chase with a composed 75-run knock. He forged a massive 155-run opening stand with the young Yashasvi Jaiswal, who scored his maiden ODI century.
Following Rohit's departure, the chase was masterfully guided by the in-form Virat Kohli. The former skipper remained unbeaten on 67, butchering the Proteas pace attack and ensuring India crossed the line comfortably. This knock backed up his two centuries in the first two matches of the series.
Kaif's Stunning Endorsement for the Veterans
Analysing the series, Mohammed Kaif lavished praise on Kohli, suggesting the batter is sending a strong message about his longevity. Kohli finished 2025 as India's highest ODI run-getter with 651 runs, just one ahead of Rohit Sharma's 650.
"After scoring two back-to-back hundreds, Kohli was walking and scoring runs today and hitting shots," Kaif said on his YouTube channel. "He is playing to make a statement. The intent he showed today shows that whatever doubt you have about 2027, he will go beyond that as well."
Kaif then delivered his definitive verdict on the pair's indispensability. "Leave 2027, he will play more and without him, and Rohit, you can never win the World Cup," he stated emphatically.
A Calmer Rohit and a Freer Kohli
Kaif also highlighted the noticeable shift in Rohit Sharma's batting now that he is free from the burdens of ODI captaincy. He noted that Rohit, valuing his wicket more, looked to play a long innings rather than a quick cameo, a sign of his adaptability.
Virat Kohli, who was adjudged the Player of the Series, reflected on his mindset. "When I play freely, I know I can hit sixes. Just wanted to push my boundaries and do well," Kohli said in the post-match presentation. "That opened me up in a way I’ve not felt in a while. Must-win brings the best out of us. Happy Rohit and I can help the team even now."
The series win, powered by these two modern greats, has ignited a crucial debate about India's roadmap for the next World Cup, with Kaif firmly placing his faith in the experience and class of Kohli and Rohit Sharma.
