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Should Rohit and Virat be left out of the ODI World Cup due to age? Harbhajan Singh cites Messi's example
One question is currently dominating discussions in Indian cricket: Will Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli play in the 2027 ODI World Cup? Both stalwarts are past the age of 30, and by the time the 2027 World Cup—hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia—takes place, Rohit will be 40 and Virat 39.
Amidst this debate, former Indian spin legend Harbhajan Singh has come out in strong support of these two senior players. 'Bhajji' believes that the criterion for selecting any player should be 'performance,' not 'age.'
'If runs are being scored, why look at age?' — Harbhajan Singh
Speaking to the news agency PTI, Harbhajan Singh stated bluntly:
Regardless of the player, I believe the yardstick should be performance, not age. If Rohit and Virat are scoring runs, why should we focus on their age?
Harbhajan acknowledged that in a major tournament like the World Cup, Rohit and Kohli would face far greater expectations and pressure compared to younger players. However, he added that given the confidence and fitness they have maintained, they can still make a significant impact at the international level.
'If Messi can do it, why not Rohit and Virat?'
Defending Rohit and Virat, Harbhajan cited the example of all-time football great Lionel Messi. Bhajji remarked that if Messi could lead his national team to become champions on the biggest stage—the World Cup—at the age of 39, then it is entirely possible for Rohit and Virat to achieve the same.
According to Harbhajan, what truly matters is the players' fitness, current form, and their contribution to the team. If both batters keep themselves fit and continue scoring runs until 2027, it would be completely wrong to sideline them simply based on their age.
15-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi described as 'unique'
During the same conversation, Harbhajan Singh also heaped praise on young sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi. Appreciating Vaibhav's fearless style, he remarked that he had never before seen such an aggressive game played against the world's top bowlers at such a young age.
Harbhajan said:
Vaibhav Suryavanshi is a distinct and truly unique player. I have never seen a player before who could dominate the world stage like this at the age of 14 or 15. When international bowlers bowl to him, they are left wondering where to pitch the ball regarding line and length.
Harbhajan advised that Vaibhav should not be viewed merely as a 'child,' as he is proving that remarkable feats can be achieved even at a young age.
