Harbhajan Singh backs Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for World Cup 2027
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 14, 2026, 8:52 AM
Last updated Aug 14, 2026
Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh has endorsed Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to continue their ODI careers leading up to the 2027 World Cup, provided they maintain their fitness and performance. Harbhajan emphasized that age should not be a factor in selection, drawing parallels with Lionel Messi's impactful performance at 39. He highlighted the importance of both players' experience compared to younger teammates like Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who may lack the same level of experience. Harbhajan's remarks come amid discussions about the veterans' roles in the national team as they near their forties.
- •Harbhajan Singh argues performance, not age, should dictate selection.
- •He compares Sharma and Kohli to Lionel Messi regarding fitness and performance.
- •Kohli is credited with changing India's winning mentality in cricket.
- •Discussion surrounds roles of veteran players ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
- •Harbhajan believes experience is crucial, especially compared to younger players.
- 8:52 AMYahoo Sports — ‘Vaibhav Sooryavanshi doesn’t have that’: Ex-India great explains Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli’s big edge
"Harbhajan Singh argues that selection for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma should rely on their performance rather than age. He highlights that both players have the potential to be key contributors in the upcoming World Cup, assuming they maintain their fitness. Drawing inspiration from Lionel Messi, Harbhajan emphasizes that it’s their fitness and performance that should influence their places on the ODI team.
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