Shubman Gill Told To Publicly Back Rohit Sharma For ODI World Cup 2027

Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has urged India ODI captain Shubman Gill to publicly support Rohit Sharma if he wants the veteran opener to be part of the squad for the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Rohit Sharma’s place in India’s plans for the 2027 World Cup has become a major talking point in recent months. Reports have suggested that the selectors are still unsure about his long-term future, leading to plenty of speculation. However, Rohit has made it clear on more than one occasion that he wants to captain India at next year’s World Cup in South Africa.

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The experienced opener also answered his critics in style with a brilliant century at Lord’s. Many believed it could be his last international appearance, but the hundred reminded everyone of his class and once again sparked the debate over his place in India’s World Cup squad. Since then, several former cricketers have backed Rohit, saying his experience, leadership and ability to perform in big matches remain valuable for the team.

Kaif believes the confusion over Rohit’s future should be addressed by the team management. According to him, Gill should openly state whether he wants Rohit in India’s plans for the 2027 World Cup. He added that great captains have always stood by senior players during difficult times.

“I think it will be a ‘wait and watch’ case. There is a lot of confusion, but that clarity has to come. Gill must come out in the press and give a statement that I want Rohit for the World Cup. A captain is always there when the team is made. Selectors may not know as much as players know about each other’s game. He will have to convince the coach and selectors and make such calls. Sehwag and Yuvraj were not scoring. Ganguly always used to stand by them and said that they would come back. Dhoni has backed players. Rohit has backed players himself. A captain has to stand by the players,” he said in a video on his YouTube channel.

Kaif also said that such a statement from Gill would bring much-needed clarity and show strong leadership. He feels a clear message from the captain would end unnecessary speculation, improve trust within the dressing room and help the team move forward with a clear direction.

“By doing this, you will bring transparency within the team, and Gill’s respect as captain will also go up. He will gain the image that he is straightforward when things are going back and forth. Everybody is watching everything. You cannot hide, and you need to get this clarity. If no one else is giving this clarity, then the captain has to do this. This will only make the team better,” he added. 

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