IND vs SA: Tim Southee Says Age Shouldn’t Matter for Kohli and Rohit Ahead of 2027 World Cup

Former New Zealand pacer Tim Southee believes that age should not be a factor in determining the future of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in ODI cricket, as long as they continue delivering match-winning performances. Speaking at a media roundtable organised by the Sharjah Warriors, Southee said both senior batters remain integral to India’s ODI setup.

Despite India winning the Champions Trophy earlier this year, speculation has continued around whether Kohli and Rohit will feature in the 2027 ODI World Cup. The Indian team management has repeatedly avoided making definitive statements, leading to questions about the long-term roles of the two senior players.

However, Southee dismissed concerns surrounding their age, stressing the impact both have made in recent months. Kohli and Rohit have adapted their batting styles after the Champions Trophy, helping them score consistently in Australia and now in South Africa.

“Kohli is arguably the best-ever one-day batsman. If he is still performing, then why not? Rohit also scored a hundred recently in Australia. As long as they are contributing, age is just a number,” Southee said.

Since the Champions Trophy, Kohli has amassed 311 runs at an average of 77, while Rohit has scored 273 runs at an average of 68. Southee added that the final decision should rest with the players themselves, noting that if they feel capable of performing at the highest level, they should be backed fully.

“If they feel they can still do everything required to play at the highest level, then why not? If Kohli is available for the World Cup, the team would certainly want him to play,” he added.

India and South Africa are currently tied 1-1 in the three-match ODI series. Kohli, coming off back-to-back centuries, will look to continue his strong form in the final ODI scheduled in Vizag on December 6.