‘No one can touch Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’: Ashwin's bombshell take, says ‘dropping them is impossible’
Source Entity
Latest News: Today's Latest News Headlines from India & World | Hindustan Times | Hindustan Times
Ravichandran Ashwin has defended the continued presence of stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the Indian cricket team. He asserts that dropping these icons is impossible, despite ongoing speculation regarding their future in the 2027 ODI World Cup.
The Unquestionable Legacy of Kohli and Sharma
In a recent statement, veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has firmly addressed the ongoing discourse surrounding the future of Indian cricket stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. By stating that "no one can touch" these two legends and that dropping them is "impossible," Ashwin has effectively attempted to silence the growing chorus of critics who have been questioning the longevity of these players in the national squad.
The Context of Speculation
The speculation regarding Kohli and Sharma has intensified following their retirement from the Test format. This transition has naturally led to intense scrutiny regarding their roles in the limited-overs setup, particularly with an eye toward the 2027 ODI World Cup. The public and media debate often centers on whether the Indian team should prioritize a youth-oriented transition or rely on the proven experience of its two most decorated batters.
Performance Under Pressure
Critics of the current selection strategy often point to the age factor and the need for fresh blood in the Men in Blue. However, as noted by their recent performances—such as Rohit Sharma’s resilient 138-run knock against England—these players continue to demonstrate that their technical prowess and match-winning capabilities remain at the highest level. This performance served as a direct rebuttal to rumors suggesting that the England series could mark the end of his international career.
The Value of Experience
Ashwin’s defense highlights a fundamental debate in cricket management: the balance between nurturing young talent and maintaining a core of experienced leaders. In high-pressure tournaments like the World Cup, the psychological stability and tactical acumen provided by veterans like Kohli and Sharma are often considered irreplaceable. Ashwin’s comments suggest that the internal belief in their value remains unshaken, regardless of outside noise.
Looking Toward 2027
The path toward the 2027 ODI World Cup remains a focal point for the BCCI and team management. While the need for an eventual succession plan is inevitable in professional sports, Ashwin’s stance underscores the sentiment that such a transition cannot be rushed at the expense of current stability. The decision to retain these players is as much about their current form as it is about the leadership void that would be created by their immediate departure.
Conclusion
Ultimately, Ravichandran Ashwin’s remarks provide a clear window into the dressing room’s perspective on its senior-most members. While external speculation will likely continue as long as the 2027 World Cup remains on the horizon, the backing from teammates of Ashwin's stature provides a powerful buffer for Kohli and Sharma. Their future will likely be determined by a combination of personal form and long-term team strategy, rather than the reactive nature of public opinion.
Multiple Citing Sources
Verification Required?