Former Pakistan captain Zaheer Abbas backs Virat Kohli & Rohit Sharma for the 2027 ODI World Cup, emphasizing their skill and experience over age.
Former Pakistan captain Zaheer Abbas has voiced strong support for Indian batting stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, asserting that both players possess the requisite skill and experience to feature in the 2027 ODI World Cup. Abbas, often referred to as the ‘Asian Bradman’ for his prolific run-scoring, believes that age should not be a deterrent for their inclusion in the squad, provided they maintain their fitness and continue to perform consistently.
Speaking on a Pakistani television channel, Abbas dismissed concerns regarding the duo’s age, highlighting their sustained ability to score runs and their invaluable experience in major ICC tournaments. He emphasized that these qualities make them automatic contenders for the upcoming tournament, which is scheduled to be jointly hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.
Experience and Skill Remain Key
Abbas, who amassed over 100 first-class centuries during his distinguished career, underscored the enduring value of experience in cricket. He stated that for players of Kohli’s and Sharma’s calibre, scoring runs becomes an innate ability after years of competing at the highest level. This deep understanding of the game and consistent performance are assets that, according to Abbas, only strengthen with time.
He further elaborated on the importance of their presence in the dressing room, suggesting that India would significantly benefit from having both veterans during the 2027 World Cup campaign. Their leadership and composure could be crucial in high-pressure situations, offering guidance to younger players and stability to the team.
Abbas also provided an assessment of the two Indian greats’ physical condition. He noted that Kohli continues to maintain exceptional physical standards, which is a testament to his dedication. Regarding Sharma, Abbas observed that he “just needs to pay a little more attention to his fitness,” implying that with minor adjustments, Sharma too can meet the physical demands of top-level cricket.
Continued Performance and Future Outlook
Abbas specifically praised Sharma’s recent performance, recalling his century against England. He described watching Sharma bat as a “pleasure,” commending his effortless style and precise timing. This particular knock, according to Abbas, reaffirmed Sharma’s credentials in the 50-over format. Similarly, Kohli’s consistent delivery of match-winning performances further reinforces the argument for the experienced pair’s continued relevance in international cricket.
These remarks from Abbas come amidst ongoing speculation about the future of India’s senior players, despite their continued strong showings in the ODI format. His endorsement highlights a perspective that prioritizes skill, experience, and current form over age alone.
While acknowledging the influence of T20 cricket in introducing innovative strokes to the game, Abbas maintained that fundamental techniques remain crucial. He insisted that any batter aspiring to succeed across all formats must master traditional shots, such as the cover drive and the cut shot, emphasizing the timeless principles of batting.
Beyond his comments on Indian cricket, Abbas also addressed the state of cricket in his home country. He expressed optimism for Pakistan’s cricketing future, stating his confidence that better days are ahead. He specifically mentioned the return of Babar Azam as Test captain, believing that Azam’s consistent run-scoring will positively impact the rest of the team and lead to improved fortunes for Pakistan cricket.
Abbas’s insights underline the belief that seasoned players like Kohli and Sharma still have a significant role to play on the international stage, particularly in major tournaments like the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
