In the same podcast with Vikrant Gupta, Yuvraj Singh also emphasised the importance of having veteran players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the squad. You do need experience in the team. You can’t take all young boys. You need someone like Virat & Rohit in the WC.
Rohit Sharma, the guy who has been probably the best white-ball opener, winning captain of T20 WC, CT, deserves respect, said the former ICT player. Yuvraj argued that while grooming youth is important, India cannot go into a World Cup with only young players. He believes the leadership and skill of the veteran duo are essential for such a major event.
He also highlighted the experience Rohit Sharma carries by winning two ICC tournaments and the calm Virat Kohli brings during difficult chases. Kohli and Sharma’s future for the ODI 2027 World Cup has been uncertain due to the management’s belief in transitioning with young players. The transition also resulted in both of them retiring from the red-ball games to make way for young players, after a humiliating loss against Australia during the BGT 2024-25 series.
Kohli and Sharma still the best ODI batters for India
Both Kohli and Sharma have proved to the world that they are still the best ODI players for India right now with their performances in the 2025 Champions Trophy, where Kohli finished as India’s second-highest run-scorer in the tournament with 218 runs in 5 matches at an average of 54.50. Kohli struck a crucial 100 off 111 balls* against Pakistan in Dubai, powering India to a 6-wicket victory. He was named Player of the Match in the semi-final against Australia for his composed 84 off 91 balls, anchoring a successful chase of 265.
Rohit Sharma provided explosive starts throughout the tournament, scoring 180 runs in 5 innings with a strike rate of 100.00. Rohit saved his best for the final against New Zealand, scoring 76 off 83 balls. He was named Player of the Match for this performance, becoming the first captain to win the award in a Champions Trophy final.
