Former Australian batting powerhouse Matthew Hayden has cast doubts about Rohit Sharma's participation in the next ICC Cricket World Cup, suggesting the Indian skipper might be "vulnerable" when the tournament arrives in 2027.
Hayden's comments come amidst India's ongoing transition in white-ball cricket, with several senior players potentially approaching the twilight of their careers. The 2027 World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, is still three years away, but the conversation around team evolution has already begun.
Age Factor and Team Transition
The Australian legend pointed to the inevitable challenge of age, noting that by 2027, Rohit Sharma would be 40 years old. This raises legitimate questions about his physical conditioning and ability to maintain peak performance in the demanding 50-over format.
"When you look at the next World Cup, it's a fair way away," Hayden remarked, emphasizing the natural progression of sporting careers. "Father Time is one thing that none of us can compete with."
India's White-Ball Cricket Crossroads
Hayden's observations highlight a crucial period for Indian cricket management. The team faces significant decisions about:
- Senior player management: How to phase out legendary players while maintaining team stability
- Succession planning: Identifying and grooming future leaders and openers
- Workload management: Balancing international commitments with player longevity
The discussion becomes particularly relevant given India's recent World Cup performances, where they've consistently reached knockout stages but fallen short of the ultimate prize.
Rohit's Current Form and Leadership
Despite the future uncertainties, Hayden acknowledged Rohit Sharma's current value to the Indian team, particularly praising his aggressive batting approach in powerplays. The Indian captain has revolutionized how openers approach the first ten overs in ODI cricket, setting templates that others follow.
"His leadership and batting in recent World Cups have been exceptional," Hayden noted, while still maintaining his concerns about the 2027 timeline.
As Indian cricket contemplates its future roadmap, the debate around senior players' roles in long-term tournaments continues to gain momentum. The selection committee and team management will need to make crucial calls about when to begin the transition process to ensure India remains competitive in global tournaments.
