Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has issued a strong and direct warning to those questioning or undermining the roles of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in India’s ODI setup. His remarks come amid growing scrutiny over the duo’s future, especially regarding the 2027 ODI World Cup plans.

Shastri, who shares a long professional and personal equation with both stalwarts, made his views clear during an interview, saying that critics and certain individuals should refrain from creating unnecessary trouble around two of India’s most accomplished white-ball players.

‘Don’t mess around with Kohli and Rohit’: Shastri

Shastri emphasised that Kohli and Rohit remain giants of ODI cricket and deserve respect, not interference. Without naming anyone, he hinted at individuals who are allegedly trying to complicate things for the pair.

He said the two senior batters have earned their stature over years of consistency and match-winning performances, and warned that if they decide to “switch on” completely, those attempting to disrupt their journey would be sidelined swiftly.

Debate over 2027 ODI World Cup participation

Shastri’s remarks come amid ongoing discussions about whether both players should continue in the ODI format. Critics argue that their time away from domestic cricket could affect their World Cup chances.

Rohit Sharma has agreed to participate in the Vijay Hazare Trophy to stay in rhythm as per BCCI guidelines. Virat Kohli initially declined a return to domestic one-day cricket but eventually reconsidered after persuasion from selectors.

A message for selectors and team management

Shastri’s comments are widely seen as a firm reminder to the current selection committee and team management to support proven performers instead of adding pressure. His warning, delivered in his typical candid style, signals his unwavering backing for the senior pros.

India put up a commanding batting display in the second ODI against South Africa in Raipur, with Virat Kohli smashing a record-extending 53rd ODI century and Ruturaj Gaikwad delivering a superb hundred to push the hosts near the 300-run mark.

Kohli anchors India’s recovery after early wickets

After being asked to bat first, India stumbled early with Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal departing at a score of 62. The situation changed once Virat Kohli and Ruturaj Gaikwad joined forces for the third wicket.

The pair stitched a formidable 195-run partnership, stabilising the innings and then accelerating with precision. Kohli, who had already hit a century in the previous ODI, continued his rich form by reaching his 53rd ODI ton—also his 84th international century.

Gaikwad strikes his first ODI hundred

Ruturaj Gaikwad took time to settle but shifted gears beautifully, bringing up his maiden ODI century with a boundary. His 105 off 83 balls included strong strokes, including a six and four in a single over off Keshav Maharaj. He eventually fell to Marco Jansen while attempting to clear the boundary.

India surge past 280

Kohli remained firm at the crease, striking timely boundaries and even surviving a close chance off Corbin Bosch. KL Rahul supported him at the other end as India crossed 280 in the 39th over, building momentum for a possible 350-plus total.

India head coach Gautam Gambhir has put the responsibility of deciding his future on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), following the team’s 2-0 Test series loss to South Africa. India’s defeat in Guwahati, their heaviest in terms of runs, has intensified scrutiny over the team’s performance under Gambhir’s leadership.

Gambhir leaves decision to BCCI

After India’s 408-run defeat, Gambhir made it clear during the press conference that he would not ask for more chances.
He said the BCCI would decide whether he should continue as Test coach.

“Indian cricket is important, I am not. It is for the BCCI to decide,” Gambhir stated, adding that he has always maintained this stance. He also reminded that he had previously delivered results in major tournaments like the Champions Trophy and Asia Cup.

“Blame starts with me,” says Gambhir

Gambhir accepted full responsibility for the series loss, acknowledging that every member of the team shares the blame.

He pointed to India’s collapse from 95/1 to 122/7 as a turning point that cannot be justified.

“You don’t blame individuals. Blame lies with everyone, and it starts with me,” he said.

Criticism over team changes and approach

Under Gambhir, India have lost 10 of 18 Tests, with consecutive whitewash defeats—first against New Zealand last year and now South Africa. Despite team overhauls and new faces, results have remained unchanged.

He has faced criticism for frequent experimentation, especially his preference for all-rounders over specialist players in the traditional format.

Responding to queries on what kind of players succeed in Tests, Gambhir said the format demands resilience.

“You don’t need the most flamboyant and talented cricketers. You need tough characters with limited skills,” he said.

“Prioritise Test cricket,” Gambhir urges

Gambhir stressed that reviving India’s Test performance requires a collective effort and a renewed focus on red-ball cricket.

“If you are serious about Test cricket in India, start prioritising it. You cannot blame only players or a certain individual,” he emphasised.