Virat Kohli’s Coach Rajkumar Sharma Backs His 2027 World Cup Place

Virat Kohli's place in India's plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup continues to attract discussion, but his childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma believes there is little reason to question the batter's position. According to Sharma, Kohli's recent performances, fitness standards and commitment to the game make the debate unnecessary.

Sharma said Kohli's performances should be enough to judge his current value to the Indian team. Since the 2025 Champions Trophy, Kohli has emerged as India's leading ODI run-scorer, accumulating 760 runs in 12 matches at an average of 76. His tally includes three centuries and five half-centuries.

For Sharma, Kohli's numbers are a clear indication that the batter remains an important part of India's ODI setup. He also believes Kohli's attitude towards preparation and his work ethic have played a major role in his sustained success.

Sharma's backing extends to another veteran, Rohit Sharma, whose ODI future has also been the subject of speculation. Despite being 39, Rohit has continued to produce significant numbers since the Champions Trophy, scoring 727 runs in 15 matches at an average of 51.92, including two centuries.

Sharma described Rohit as a tremendous player and an established match-winner who can change a game when he performs at his best. Rohit's century at Lord's in July had temporarily eased questions about his future, although speculation surrounding his ODI career returned ahead of the BCCI's September review meeting.

While Sharma accepts that questions surrounding Rohit's future continue, he sees Kohli's situation differently. His confidence in Kohli comes from having worked with the batter since his early years, long before he became one of the leading names in international cricket.

According to Sharma, Kohli displayed enormous confidence in his abilities from a young age and combined that belief with an exceptional work ethic. He recalled seeing those qualities early in Kohli's career and credited them for helping the batter develop into a major international player.

Sharma also pointed to Kohli's emphasis on fitness as an important part of his legacy. He believes the former India captain's approach to physical preparation has influenced not only cricketers but also people across the country.

The coach has been associated with Kohli's journey for more than 25 years, dating back to the period when the youngster first joined his club. He recalled the significance of watching Kohli eventually become India's captain and described those memories as deeply nostalgic.

Kohli and Rohit will have further opportunities to strengthen their cases in the upcoming ODI schedule. India's three-match series against the West Indies begins on September 27, providing both experienced batters with another chance to demonstrate their value in the 50-over format.

India are also scheduled to play five ODIs against New Zealand between November 4 and 15, followed by three ODIs against Sri Lanka in December. The extended run of matches will give both veterans a substantial opportunity to build their case ahead of India's 2027 World Cup plans.

For Kohli, however, his childhood coach remains convinced that his performances have already provided the strongest answer to those questioning his place in the team.