Playing Only one format: Kohli, Rohit Discuss 2027 World Cup Plans With Gambhir
Kohli and Rohit dominate modern batting. Both have been important to India’s ODI endeavor, particularly with an eye on the next ICC ODI World Cup. The senior duo is busy shaping the future of India’s 50-over cricket. They have already pulled off other formats of the game. They were constantly with head coach Gautam Gambhir and the support staff.
According to India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak, Kohli and Rohit are not only existing players in this setup; they are also part of the long-term plan. Kotak, prior to India’s second ODI against New Zealand, mentioned that both players are completely on the same page with the management. They are continuously discussing various strategic elements, conditions, and preparations for their upcoming challenges. According to Khelosports, such clarity is a positive sign for Indian cricket as it now balances experience with emerging talent.
One Format, One Clear Goal
With Kohli and Rohit now focusing solely on ODIs, their focus has become distilled and intent-driven. Kotak explained the advantage of being able to focus their energy, preparation, and experience on India’s success on the field.
“They definitely make plans,” said Kotak, highlighting that both players want India to win wherever it plays. Due to their experience, they could maintain a more bird’s-eye view of different conditions. They know the strengths of opposition and match situations. Virat and Rohit provide insights that become crucial in high-stress scenarios such as World Cups. Khelosports further reports that the same attitude is defining India’s ODI identity going forward.
🚨 #BREAKING: Rohit and Kohli to hold meeting to decide Gambhir and Agarkar's career for 2027 WC pic.twitter.com/9xxA4tq5Ds
— The Fauxy Sports (@TheFauxySports) November 30, 2025
Strong Collaboration With Gautam Gambhir
Kotak also noted that Kohli and Rohit frequently communicate with Gambhir about the ODI format, near fixtures, and long-term plans. The main focus is on the preparation for the next conditions in South Africa. As the batting coach involved in many discussions, he confirms an ever-pleasant conversation rather than a clash.
These two players’ decision to walk away from red-ball cricket made a huge impact on test performance. As Khelosports mentions, clear roles and mutual respect between the players and coaches often translate into stability on the pitch.
Mentorship Beyond the Scorecard
One of the most valuable contributions Kohli and Rohit bring to the game is that of mentoring. Having played multiple ICC ODI World Cups, toured many countries, and competed in high-stakes matches, younger players have experience from these sports, which they cannot learn through training drills. Kotak also reminisced that the two share ideas with other batters, which usually deal with the technique, mindset, and preparation.
However, the coaches have no inclination to interfere with them. Both players know their bodies, fitness requirements, and technical necessities well enough to work with themselves. And it gives them independence not only in performance but also sets a professional example for the rest of the squad.
Just as cricket conversations explore the broader impact of sports on cultural relations, similar narratives are playing out across other major leagues. The January 2026 Premier League transfer window has sparked its own share of debate, with clubs and fans weighing the influence of marquee signings on team identity, fan engagement, and even national sporting culture.
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Responding to the New ODI Format
Kotak highlighted the growing relevance of the changing face of ODI cricket with respect to playing conditions. The most important change is the introduction of the one-ball rule applicable after the 34th over. That means, from over 35 to 50, teams will continue to use only one of the two balls from the two used previously.
Over the years, especially in India, scores above 300 runs have become routine. Kotak said the team would be ready to reassess and build a new template for ODIs under the new rules after the upcoming T20 ICC ODI World Cup. It looks like this, along with the inputs from senior guys like Kohli and Rohit, would very much be an asset to India in its preparations for the World Cup.
🚨 KOHLI & ROHIT FOR 2027 WORLD CUP 🚨
— Tanuj (@ImTanujSingh) November 30, 2025
- Virat Kohli & Rohit Sharma have locked their target to play the 2027 ODI World Cup. If they continue to have same desire & fire, BCCI will find it very hard to look past the these two. (Sahil Malhotra/TOI). pic.twitter.com/QvZU0d9SOQ
Squad Balance and Emerging Options
The batting coach also explained why the selectors included Ayush Badoni for his maiden ODI debut due to Washington Sundar’s injury absence. Badoni’s selection has more to do with bringing in that extra option to balance things out and to do the needful with bat and ball when required.
Disputing claims that Badoni scored low in his past matches in domestic competitions, Kotak said that his few not-so-good innings do not define a player, especially in view of the current cricket schedules players face. The selectors banked much on league performances, such as the IPL.
The Future
The ongoing ODI series against New Zealand is beginning to show, with the mood of India set on consistency, clarity, and preparation. While Kohli and Rohit may be focusing on one format and apparently working toward 2027, a strong base for the future is being laid. One of the most vital messages for the followers keeping in touch through updates on Khelosports is that experience and foresight remain cornerstones of India’s ODI aspirations.
FAQs
They have decided to focus fully on ODI games. To manage workload, Virat and Rohit are playing just the ODI format.
As of now, they both are getting involved in the discussion with the head coach.
The coach Kotal dismissed these rumors of any conflict between him and the senior players of the Indian team.
The rule is likely to change scoring patterns for the last overs. Therefore, the team plans to devise an updated batting template after the T20 World Cup.
Badoni was picked for his all-round capabilities and for providing balance regarding injuries, along with having a good run across formats.
