Indian bowling coach Morne Morkel has voiced strong support for veteran stars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, backing the duo to represent India at the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2027. His remarks arrive amid ongoing discussions about the future of two of India’s most celebrated cricketers, especially after their recent retirements from Test cricket earlier this year.

Both Kohli and Sharma had already stepped away from T20Is following India’s victory at the 2024 T20I World Cup run last. Their retirement from Test and T20Is has led to widespread speculation about whether the team management views them as part of India’s long-term plans in ODIs. 

“Sure, they are quality players. As long as they are happy to put the hard work in and maintain fitness. I have always believed that to have that experience, you can’t find it anywhere. They have won trophies, they know how to play big tournaments,” said Morkel at the press conference on Friday.

“For sure, if they maintain their fitness and they physically feel their bodies can do that, it’s still a long way away, the World Cup. I have played many games against them, I have had sleepless nights bowling to them. I know, as a bowler, what goes through your preparation playing against them. So, for me, I am definitely on board with that.”

Morkel also provided an update on the recovery of Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer. 

“I think the best is for the medical to give that. I spoke to Shubman two days ago just to check in with him and he is recovering well. So that is pleasing to hear," said Morkel.

“Shreyas has also started his rehab, which is great. So yeah, we are looking forward to welcoming them back into the squad. And the good thing is that they are healthy and they are starting their preparation on their way back into the team,"