‘Great for the Game’: Travis Head Expects Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to Continue Until 2027 ODI World Cup

Perth — Australia’s explosive batter Travis Head has expressed confidence that Indian cricket icons Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will continue their ODI journeys until the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup, despite widespread rumours suggesting that this Australian tour might be their final overseas assignment in the format.

India and Australia — the finalists of the 2023 ODI World Cup — are set to renew their rivalry in a three-match ODI series beginning in Perth on Sunday. Ahead of the series, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) handed Shubman Gill the ODI captaincy, resting Rohit Sharma from leadership duties. The decision has sparked speculation that it could mark an unofficial farewell series for Rohit and Kohli on Australian soil.

Speaking to reporters in Perth on Friday, Head was full of admiration for the Indian duo.

“They have been awesome for India. I guess Axar can speak more highly about them than I can. But they’re two quality players — two of the best white-ball cricketers in the world. Virat is probably the greatest white-ball player ever, and Rohit isn’t far behind,” said Head, standing alongside India’s Axar Patel.

“As an opener, I have huge respect for what Rohit has achieved. I’m sure they’ll be missed at some point, but I think both are going until 2027,” Head added, turning to Axar with a smile. “They’re both chasing that next World Cup — and that’s great for the game.”

Axar Patel, who will feature as India’s main all-rounder in Ravindra Jadeja’s absence, echoed similar sentiments about the senior stars’ commitment and preparation.

“They are world-class players. They know what to do — they’re professionals and completely ready for the challenge,” Axar said.

He further noted that both veterans have been training intensely in the lead-up to the series.

“In terms of form, they’ve been preparing very well. Everyone has cleared their fitness tests and is raring to go,” he added.

With inputs from IANS