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As the countdown to the 2027 ICC ODI World Cup gathers momentum, the focus has once again shifted to two of the country’s biggest cricketing icons — Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Following their underwhelming returns in the first ODI against Australia in Perth, where both struggled to make an impact, questions have been raised about their long-term roles in India’s white-ball plans.
However, former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has urged fans and critics not to jump to conclusions. In an interview with the International Cricket Council (ICC), Ponting expressed complete faith in Kohli and Rohit, stating that the duo still have what it takes to feature prominently in India’s plans for the 2027 World Cup.
Ricky Ponting urges fans to stay patient
Ponting, who captained Australia to back-to-back World Cup triumphs in 2003 and 2007, stressed that form slumps are natural, especially after an extended break from the game. He believes that both Indian veterans simply need time to rediscover their rhythm in the 50-over format.
“Finding your rhythm and tempo is the biggest thing. When you’ve had a break, just getting back used to the rhythm and tempo of the 50-over game again takes a little time for anybody. I’d expect to see both those guys bounce back pretty quickly,” said Ponting.
Ponting added that players like Kohli and Rohit, who have consistently delivered on the biggest stages, should never be written off after a few low scores.
“They’re proven champions. They know how to adapt and how to win games. You can never count out players with that level of experience and hunger,” he added.
AUS vs IND: Virat Kohli reveals how his childhood heroes inspired him to conquer Australian conditions
Perth struggles no cause for concern
In the series opener at the Optus Stadium, both batters found themselves undone by the pace and bounce of Australian conditions. Rohit managed just eight runs before edging behind, while Kohli was dismissed for a duck — a rare sight in ODI cricket. Despite the tough outing, Ponting insisted that these early stumbles were nothing to be alarmed about.
“Perth is one of the toughest places to bat, even for the best players. Both of them were up against world-class bowlers on a surface that offered bounce and movement. Once they get more time in the middle, they’ll be fine,” explained Ponting.
Ponting on how Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli can earn spots in ODI World Cup 2025
India and Australia will now head to the Adelaide Oval for the second ODI — a venue where Kohli, in particular, has enjoyed tremendous success. Ponting believes that matches like these are ideal platforms for the senior duo to regain form and silence any doubts about their future.
“They’ll find ways to contribute and win matches for their team. If they continue doing that over the next few years, there’s absolutely no doubt they’ll be part of that 2027 World Cup squad,” Ponting added further.
Also READ: AUS vs IND: Virat Kohli’s ODI record in Adelaide Oval
