Daijiworld Media Network - Perth

Perth, Oct 17: Australia batter Travis Head believes that Indian cricket icons Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are far from done in One-Day Internationals and are likely to continue playing until the 2027 ODI World Cup, despite swirling speculation about their futures in the format.

Speaking ahead of the upcoming three-match ODI series between India and Australia, set to begin in Perth on Sunday, Head expressed admiration for the veteran duo, calling them "two of the best white-ball players" the game has seen. The series has drawn additional attention after the BCCI handed ODI captaincy to Shubman Gill, relieving Rohit of leadership duties—a move many view as a symbolic farewell tour for both Rohit and Kohli on Australian soil.

“They’ve been awesome for India,” said Head at a press interaction on Friday, flanked by Indian all-rounder Axar Patel. “Virat is probably the greatest white-ball player of all time. Rohit’s not far behind. I have huge respect for what Rohit has done, especially as an opener. I think they both are still eyeing the 2027 World Cup,” he added, sharing a glance with Axar, who smiled in response.

While the cricketing world speculates on whether the series marks the final chapter for the two stalwarts in ODIs, Head emphasized that their continued presence is "great for the game."

Axar Patel, who is expected to play a key all-rounder role in Ravindra Jadeja’s absence, echoed Head’s sentiment, calling both Rohit and Kohli "world-class professionals" who are fully prepared for the series.

“They know exactly what to do. They’ve been training well and have cleared their fitness tests. They’re ready to go,” Axar said. “Their form looks good in the nets. They’ve been preparing hard, and I think they’re raring to perform.”

As both teams gear up for a high-stakes clash following their 2023 World Cup final meeting, the focus remains not just on the next generation but also on whether two of India's greatest will continue their ODI journeys toward 2027.