Afridi backs India’s senior core to lead into 2027 World Cup
Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has voiced strong support for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to remain central figures in India’s ODI plans all the way through to the 2027 World Cup. At a time when discussions around transitioning to a younger squad have gained momentum, Afridi made it clear he sees no reason to move on from the seasoned pair just yet, according to a report by Telecom Asia Sport.
“It’s a fact that Virat and Rohit are the backbone of the Indian batting line-up, and the way they have played in the recent ODI series, it can confidently be said that they can play until the 2027 World Cup,” Shahid Afridi, speaking to Telecom Asia Sport.
While praising their form and fitness, Afridi also called for smarter squad management. Rather than sidelining the veterans, he proposed a more flexible rotation system to ensure longevity.
“You need to preserve both these stars, and when India is playing against a weaker team, they can try some new players and rest Virat and Rohit,” he said.
His comments directly challenge the growing narrative that India must now groom a younger core — positioning Kohli and Rohit not as roadblocks to progress, but as essential pillars of experience.
Subtle criticism aimed at Gautam Gambhir’s coaching start
Afridi didn’t limit his observations to the field of play. He also addressed the leadership style of India head coach Gautam Gambhir, with whom he has shared a famously tense history. Without naming specific incidents, Afridi hinted at an overconfident start to Gambhir’s coaching tenure.
“The way Gautam started his stint, it looked like he thought that what he thinks and says is right, but after some time, it was proved that you are not always right,” Afridi added.
The remark, while restrained, adds another chapter to the long-standing rivalry between the two former cricketers — one that has often spilled over from the pitch into public commentary.
Afridi celebrates Rohit Sharma’s six-hitting record
On a more celebratory note, Afridi expressed happiness that it was Rohit Sharma who broke his long-standing record for the most sixes in ODI history. Rohit overtook Afridi’s tally of 351 sixes during the series against South Africa, reaching 355 sixes in 279 matches.
“Records are meant to be broken, and this too is now bettered. I am happy that a player whom I have always liked has broken this record. My record of fastest century stood for nearly 18 years, but it was finally broken, so records are set by one player and another player comes and breaks it. This is cricket,” he stated.
Afridi’s admiration for Rohit dates back to their shared stint with the Deccan Chargers in the 2008 IPL. He reflected on that early connection and recognized the Indian captain’s potential even then.
“I played alongside Rohit for the Deccan Chargers in my only Indian Premier League (IPL) season in 2008, and at that time, I liked him. During practice sessions of the Chargers, I watched him bat, and his class impressed me. I knew that one day Rohit would play for India, and he has proved himself as a classy batter,” Afridi concluded.
Afridi’s remarks reignite cross-border cricket debate
Afridi’s comments — touching on India’s coaching leadership, senior player management, and record-breaking milestones — have struck a chord with fans on both sides of the border. His praise for Kohli and Rohit contrasts sharply with the guarded jab at Gambhir, subtly reigniting a rivalry now extended into the coaching domain.
