New Delhi, October 10, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Former India all-rounder Robin Singh has backed Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to play key roles for the national team at the 2027 ODI World Cup, saying their current form, fitness and experience will make them valuable assets at the global tournament.
The World Cup, scheduled to be held in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia, is less than a year away. Both Rohit and Kohli have been in impressive form in recent one-day internationals, strengthening expectations that the former India captains could feature in the tournament.
Rohit has scored two centuries and a 92 in his last five innings, while Kohli has registered a hundred and two scores above 50 — 74 and 65 — in his last five outings.
Speaking exclusively to IANS, Robin Singh said the duo’s recent performances were more important than concerns about their age, adding that both players understood what was required at the highest level.
“I think experience is one thing. But more importantly, I think it’s their form that is important. And of course, you know, with age you have enough and more experience. So that’s really not a problem. They know what to do,” he said.
Robin Singh also praised Rohit and Kohli for maintaining their fitness and consistency, expressing confidence that they would strengthen India’s campaign if selected for the 2027 showpiece.
“It’s more about staying in the moment, staying fit and keeping playing well. I think they are doing that exceptionally well. So there are no complaints. They definitely will be a big asset to the Indian team,” he said.
Robin Singh backs India’s World Cup planning
India have been trying out different players in recent ODI matches against the West Indies as the team management works towards identifying the best combination for the World Cup.
Robin Singh said head coach Gautam Gambhir and his support staff would have a clear strategy for the tournament and would assess players according to the requirements of that plan.
“Look, I think they are trying out as many players as possible. They do have their formula in place. So I am pretty sure Gautam and his team members will have their formula,” he said.
He added that the team management would look to provide sufficient opportunities to players who fit its plans before finalising the squad.
“I am sure he has a way of what he would like to do in the World Cup. What type of players he wants for the World Cup. So I am pretty sure they will try and pick people around that strategy to give them enough opportunities to perform and to have the ability to pick the best team going forward before the World Cup,” Singh said.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammed Shami in contention?
The discussion around India’s World Cup preparations has also raised questions about the prospects of experienced fast bowlers Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Mohammed Shami, particularly with the tournament set to be played in conditions that can assist seam bowling.
Bhuvneshwar has been recalled to India’s T20I side for the upcoming New Zealand tour, while Shami remains out of the national team. Robin Singh said their selection would ultimately depend on whether they featured in the team management’s plans.
“Again, you know, it depends on what they want. So if they are in the mix, they should be playing. I don’t see any surprises happening. But if they are not in the mix, then it becomes difficult,” he said.
The former India cricketer, who has also coached Deccan Chargers and Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League, praised both bowlers and said their performances warranted consideration for a return to the national side.
“I think these two are excellent bowlers irrespective of their age. I saw Bhuvneshwar Kumar bowling in T20 last year. They played a lot of domestic cricket as well. And they have actually done enough to give themselves a chance to get back into the side. Both are really good bowlers, excellent bowlers,” Singh said.
Robin Singh represented India in 136 ODIs and one Test. His comments underline the importance of form, fitness and strategic selection as India continue to build towards the 2027 ODI World Cup.
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