Dhoni's Take on Rohit and Kohli for 2027 World Cup
Former Indian cricket captain MS Dhoni has recently shared his perspective on the future of cricket icons Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli concerning the 2027 World Cup. During an event, when asked whether these seasoned players would feature in the upcoming World Cup, Dhoni made it clear that age should not be a barrier for participation; instead, performance and fitness must take precedence.
Dhoni humorously responded at first but quickly provided an insightful view. He stated, “Why should someone not play the next World Cup? Age is not a criterion; performance and fitness are.” This statement sets the tone for a discussion that resonates well with cricket fans in India, where both players have made significant contributions to the sport.
He emphasized that if Rohit and Kohli continue to deliver exceptional performances and maintain their fitness levels, they should be considered for selection, regardless of their age. Dhoni believes it is not for selectors to decide based on age; it is up to the players and their performance on the field.
Dhoni also highlighted the importance of experience in high-stakes matches like the World Cup. According to him, experience cannot be measured solely by the number of games played. He mentioned that true experience comes from having faced pressure in crucial situations repeatedly, which is often accumulated over several years.
The former captain reflected on how players who are a bit older can bring invaluable insights and skills to the team. He argued that while a mix of youth and experience is essential, performance and fitness should remain the only criteria for selection. Dhoni stated, “If you want to compete at the top level, you have to be fit. If you’re 35 and fit, then age doesn’t matter.”
As India prepares for future international challenges, Dhoni’s words serve as a reminder that the passion for the game and the desire to perform can outweigh the constraints of age. His insistence on treating all players equally based on their merit is a philosophy that can inspire both current and aspiring cricketers in India.
Ultimately, Dhoni's insights not only reflect his deep understanding of the game but also encourage a culture of meritocracy in sports, where the focus remains on talent and hard work rather than age-related stereotypes.
