Rohit, Kohli for 2027 World Cup? MS Dhoni tells Agarkar to focus on fitness, not age

Former India captain MS Dhoni has given his verdict that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli should be considered for the ODI World Cup in 2027. Dhoni's viewers have found a lot of takers among fans.

Should Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma be automatic selections for the 2027 ODI World Cup, or should India begin the process of moving on? Former India captain MS Dhoni weighed in on the debate, making it clear that age, in his view, should never decide selection.

Dhoni, who led India to ODI and T20 World Cup titles along with a Champions Trophy win, said that if Kohli and Rohit are fit and performing, there is no reason they should not be part of the squad for the tournament in South Africa. Drawing from his own experience of playing the 2019 ODI World Cup late in his career, Dhoni added that the decision should ultimately rest with the players themselves.

“For me, age is not a criterion. Performance and fitness are the criteria,” Dhoni said at an event. “I always feel nobody should be told anything. But it should be clear that everyone will be treated the same way.”

Reflecting on his own journey, Dhoni said age was never discussed when he broke into the Indian team and should not become a talking point later either.

“When I made my debut, I was 24, nobody told me anything. And now when I’ve played for India for 10 years, 20 years or whatever, nobody needs to come and tell me about my age,” he added.

“Why shouldn’t they play it? The age is not a criteria, it’s the performance and fitness. If they’re performing and are dedicated to do well, then why not? You can't get a 20 year old who is experienced unless he’s Sachin.”~ Dhoni on Rohit/Kohlipic.twitter.com/ZBJzcFWJKn— Cricketopia (@CricketopiaCom) February 4, 2026