India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel has expressed strong belief that senior players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli still have the ability, discipline and competitive drive to continue performing at the highest level for several years and can even represent India in the 2027 ODI World Cup, provided they remain mentally and physically committed. As India prepares for the first ODI against South Africa, where both Rohit and Kohli will return to action, Morkel spoke about their influence, their unmatched experience and the value they continue to bring to Indian cricket.
Morkel backs Rohit and Kohli to continue long careers and compete strongly in 2027
With the next ODI World Cup still almost two years away, discussions surrounding team combinations and long-term selections have already begun. When asked whether he would like to see Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli participate in the 2027 edition, Morkel offered a confident response: the decision ultimately rests on the players’ mental readiness, physical conditioning and willingness to maintain the rigorous training standards they have followed throughout their careers. According to him, both have proven repeatedly that they thrive in major tournaments and understand the demands of high-pressure environments better than most cricketers in the world.
Morkel acknowledged that the 2027 World Cup is still distant, but emphasised that great players often find ways to keep themselves motivated. He described both Rohit and Kohli as “quality players,” noting that elite athletes with the right mindset can extend their careers well beyond conventional expectations. Their trophy cabinet and their performances in global tournaments, he said, speak for themselves. They are players who know how to carry a team, understand game situations deeply and deliver in moments that define major competitions.
He explained that experience is a priceless element in cricket, especially in long tournaments where temperament, decision-making under pressure and calmness can make a decisive difference. According to Morkel, no team can easily replace the experience that Rohit and Kohli bring, not only as players but as leaders and mentors to the younger generation. Their presence in the dressing room, he said, has an intangible impact that extends far beyond statistics.
Reflecting on his own playing days, Morkel shared that bowling to both players was one of the most challenging experiences he encountered. Their ability to read bowlers, adapt quickly, and accelerate an innings forced him into difficult spells. “I have had sleepless nights bowling to them,” he said with a smile, indicating how seriously he regards their abilities even years after competing against them. This personal experience, he explained, contributes to his confidence that they can continue to play at the highest level.
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have built careers that combine exceptional talent with remarkable work ethic. Their fitness levels, despite long careers and demanding schedules, have remained impressive. Morkel emphasised that if they continue to stay disciplined about their physical preparation and recovery—something they have consistently done—they will be capable of competing even in 2027. He stressed that longevity in cricket is not purely a matter of age but depends heavily on professionalism, and both Rohit and Kohli represent the highest standards of commitment.
As India transitions into a phase where younger talents are emerging rapidly, senior figures like Rohit and Kohli continue to hold pivotal roles. Morkel mentioned that their presence alongside newer players creates a balanced environment that blends youthful energy with seasoned wisdom. He believes that passing on knowledge, shaping on-field decision-making and setting standards for the team culture are among the most important contributions that senior players make. Their involvement in future tournaments would, therefore, strengthen India’s overall structure.
At the same time, Morkel remained realistic in acknowledging that the choice ultimately lies with the players themselves. Whether they want to continue for another World Cup will depend on their personal motivation and the condition of their bodies over the next two years. However, he reiterated multiple times that from a coaching and cricketing perspective, he sees no reason why they cannot continue.
Injury concerns for Gill and Iyer as Morkel updates on their recovery and India adapts its plans
As India prepares for the ODI series against South Africa, the team faces significant absences due to injuries to two key players: Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer. Their absence places increased responsibility on senior players, making the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli even more crucial for the upcoming matches.
Shubman Gill, who has been India’s regular captain in recent months, sustained a neck injury during the first Test in Kolkata. The injury was serious enough to require hospital attention, and although his condition has improved since then, medical assessments ruled him out of both the second Test and the entire ODI series. KL Rahul will lead India in Gill’s absence, adding yet another layer of responsibility on senior players within the squad.
Morkel shared that he has been in touch with Gill to monitor his recovery. According to him, Gill is progressing well and is expected to return as soon as he regains full fitness. Morkel noted that Gill remains positive and motivated despite the setback, which is important for his long-term health and performance.
Vice-captain Shreyas Iyer is also unavailable due to a spleen injury suffered while attempting a catch during India’s series against Australia. The force of the impact required immediate medical attention, and he was hospitalised in Sydney before beginning his rehabilitation. The injury has ruled him out for the foreseeable future, and India will miss his presence in the middle order, especially in the early games of the South Africa tour.
Morkel offered a reassuring update on Iyer’s recovery as well. He explained that Iyer has begun his rehabilitation routine and is showing encouraging signs of improvement. The team staff is closely monitoring his progress and expects him to return once his recovery is medically cleared.
With two important players unavailable, India will rely more heavily on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to bring both stability and confidence to the batting lineup. Their roles become even more prominent as the team adapts to these absences and seeks to establish rhythm ahead of a packed international calendar.
Morkel added that such injury phases are natural in international cricket, especially for players who are continuously involved in multi-format cricket. He emphasised that the support staff has already prepared strategies to ensure the team remains competitive despite limited personnel. Integrating young talent, reshaping combinations and managing workloads are all part of the planning process that India is focusing on.
The ODI series also gives India a chance to experiment with roles, especially since the team has already begun long-term planning for upcoming ICC tournaments. With the next ODI World Cup still two years away, India has the opportunity to create flexibility within its squad—something that becomes easier when seasoned campaigners like Rohit and Kohli anchor the team.
Morkel believes that the resilience of the team lies not only in its strongest lineup but in its ability to adapt during times of adversity. Injuries like those to Gill and Iyer offer a window for other players to step forward, showcase their potential and gain confidence by performing under pressure.
As India prepares for the upcoming fixtures, the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli adds a stabilising presence to the squad. According to Morkel, the combination of experience, hunger, and skill that the two senior players possess will continue to guide India’s journey on the field—this year and possibly even in the 2027 World Cup if they choose to continue.
