Australian cricket great Ricky Ponting has expressed confidence that Indian batters Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are aiming to continue playing until the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa. Both Kohli and Rohit retired from Test cricket last year and now feature exclusively in ODI cricket for India. Apart from international matches, most of their cricketing action now comes from the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Ponting's Endorsement of Veteran Players
Ponting, who led Australia to ODI World Cup titles in 2003 and 2007, emphasized that experienced players like Kohli and Rohit should never be underestimated. "I can see them pushing ahead and trying to get there. One thing I've always said about champion players is you never say no. You never write them off," Ponting, who is the head coach of Punjab Kings, was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.
Praise for IPL Performances and Fitness
Ponting also lauded Kohli's performances in IPL 2026 and Rohit's improved fitness levels this season. "Virat's been a good example of that again through this IPL. He's not playing as much international cricket as he once was, but that determination and want to win is still there. Rohit Sharma has turned up at this IPL in better physical condition than I've seen him probably in about 10 or 12 years," Ponting said.
He added: "So the passion is still there for those guys to push on and make themselves the best players they can be. So like I said, you never say never."
Current IPL Statistics
Kohli has scored 542 runs in 13 matches in IPL 2026, including one century. Rohit, who returned after recovering from a hamstring injury, has mostly played as an impact player for Mumbai Indians. He has scored 283 runs in eight matches, including two half-centuries. Both players have maintained strike rates above 160 this season.
Upcoming ODI Series and World Cup Prospects
On Tuesday, both Kohli and Rohit were included in India’s squad for the three-match ODI series against the Afghanistan national cricket team starting June 14. Rohit’s selection was subject to fitness due to his hamstring issue. The selectors are expected to make a final decision on their participation in the 2027 ODI World Cup closer to the tournament, depending on their form and fitness levels.
Stay updated with the latest IPL Live Score, IPL news, schedule, points table, and the race for the Orange Cap and Purple Cap.
