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The ICC Men\u2019s Cricket World Cup 2027<\/strong><\/a> is still more than a year away, but discussions around India\u2019s potential squad have already started gaining momentum. The tournament, which will be hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe<\/strong> and Namibia<\/strong>, is expected to be another major challenge for the Indian team, with the selectors likely to weigh a combination of youth, form and experience before finalising their plans.<\/p>\n One of the biggest questions surrounding India\u2019s 2027 campaign is the future of Rohit Sharma<\/strong><\/a>. While the veteran opener continues to remain a hugely influential figure in Indian cricket, there has been considerable debate over whether he should be guaranteed a place in the World Cup squad. Former India batter Ajinkya Rahane<\/strong>, however, believes there should be no uncertainty surrounding Rohit\u2019s selection.<\/p>\n Rahane believes India should make their intentions clear to Rohit rather than assessing his position after every bilateral series. According to the former India batter, the contribution Rohit has made to Indian cricket over the years makes his experience particularly valuable in a major tournament. Speaking about Rohit\u2019s future, Rahane said the team management should simply tell the veteran batter that he is part of India\u2019s plans for the 2027 World Cup.<\/p>\n \u201cI think it\u2019s important to tell Rohit Sharma that he\u2019s going to play the 2027 World Cup. If you see his contribution throughout so many years, it\u2019s been amazing. So you need the experience of such a player in the World Cup,\u201d<\/em> Rahane said, as quoted by Hindustan Times.<\/p>\n The former India captain also argued that Rohit\u2019s position should not be repeatedly discussed after every series. In his view, giving an experienced player certainty can allow him to concentrate completely on his cricket. Rahane added that a decision should not be taken on a series-by-series basis when dealing with a player of Rohit\u2019s stature.<\/p>\n Also READ: Hashim Amla names 3 batters he can\u2019t wait to watch at ODI World Cup 2027<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n One of the key points raised by Rahane was the importance of rhythm in cricket. He explained that players, irrespective of their experience, need consistency and a clear mind to perform at their best. Rahane believes repeatedly questioning Rohit\u2019s place in the team could create unnecessary uncertainty. Instead, he feels the veteran should know that he has the backing of the management and can prepare specifically for the World Cup.<\/p>\n \u201cIf you treat a big player like that, because as I said, it\u2019s about rhythm. Cricket is about rhythm. No matter how many matches you\u2019ve played, whether you\u2019re a youngster or an experienced player in the team, it\u2019s about rhythm. If your mind is free, you can play with that mindset,\u201d<\/em> he said.<\/p>\n Rahane also insisted that there is little point debating Rohit\u2019s quality given everything he has achieved during his international career.<\/p>\n \u201cAs for Rohit\u2019s quality, there\u2019s no need to even speak about it. Such experience is needed in the team, so this debate shouldn\u2019t even happen between the team management and the captain. Agar unko khelna hai 2027 World Cup, toh unko khelna hai,\u201d<\/em> Rahane added.<\/p>\n With the 2027 World Cup approaching, Rohit\u2019s form and fitness will inevitably remain important factors. However, Rahane\u2019s comments make one thing clear: he believes India\u2019s planning should include the experienced opener from the outset rather than leaving his World Cup future uncertain until the final stages.<\/p>\nAjinkya Rahane backs Rohit Sharma for 2027 World Cup<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Rhythm could be crucial for Rohit<\/strong><\/h2>\n