Former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has criticised those questioning the future of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, saying it is “unfortunate” that individuals who haven’t done much in the game are the ones debating the careers of two modern greats. Despite rising speculation, Harbhajan believes both players will continue until the 2027 ODI World Cup.
With Rohit, 38, and Kohli, 37, now focusing exclusively on ODIs, there has been growing debate over whether they will stay on till the next World Cup in South Africa, especially with the ODI format seeing a reduced global calendar. Head coach Gautam Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar have remained non-committal, though both veterans have hinted that they intend to keep pushing for their spots.
Speaking at the ILT20 Season 4 in Sharjah, Harbhajan said similar treatment was meted out to many senior players in the past. "It is beyond our understanding. I may not be able to answer because I have been a player myself and what I have seen has happened to me as well. It has happened to many of my teammates but it is very unfortunate. We don't talk about it or have a discussion about it," he said.
"I am so happy when I see a player like Virat Kohli who is still going strong. It is a bit unfortunate that those people are deciding about their future who have not achieved much,” he added.
Harbhajan, India’s fourth-highest Test wicket-taker with 417 wickets, expressed admiration for Kohli’s and Rohit’s current form. Kohli has smashed consecutive centuries in the home series against South Africa, while a leaner Rohit has hit two half-centuries and a brilliant 121 in his last four innings.
He added that both players are still setting the benchmark for the next generation.
"They have always scored runs and have always been great players for India, they have done extremely well as batters and are leaders of the team. I'm so happy for them, they are going very, very strong. Not just going strong but setting the example for the younger generation to follow and what it takes to be a champion. So, well done Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma for setting the right example," the 45-year-old said.
With more than a year remaining before the 2027 World Cup, Harbhajan expects both stalwarts to enter the tournament in formidable form and continue inspiring the team.
