Kohli Knows Importance of World Cup, No Need for Discussion: Rohit

Former India captain Rohit Sharma believes there is no need to remind Virat Kohli about the importance of the 2027 ODI World Cup, saying the veteran batter's extensive experience already makes him fully aware of what the global tournament means.

Speaking to JioStar ahead of India's second ODI against the West Indies, Rohit said Kohli's experience of playing in four previous World Cups means such discussions do not arise between the two former India captains.

Kohli has represented India at the 2011, 2015, 2019 and 2023 ODI World Cups, with the 2027 edition in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia set to be his fifth appearance. According to Rohit, Kohli has played the most World Cups among the current Indian squad and therefore understands the significance of the tournament.

Rohit said their conversations are instead focused on what they need to do during matches, particularly when they are batting together. They discuss which bowlers to attack, when to take singles and how to handle different situations.

The former captain also spoke about his camaraderie with Kohli, saying their relationship and communication have remained largely unchanged since they started playing together. Rohit recalled that even small conversations during matches, such as asking Kohli to be careful while running between the wickets when he feels discomfort in his leg, are part of their interaction.

Despite having different personalities and approaches on the field, Rohit said their team goals remain the same — to win matches, series and tournaments and contribute to the team's success.

Kohli, who has retired from Test and T20I cricket, is currently India's most experienced ODI batter. He has played 315 ODIs, scoring 15,080 runs, including 55 centuries and 79 half-centuries, at an average of 59.13 and a strike rate of 94.30.

Kohli was part of India's 2011 World Cup-winning team and has already said that the 2027 World Cup will be his final appearance at the tournament.

Rohit, meanwhile, has played 289 ODIs and scored 11,927 runs, including 34 centuries and 62 fifties. The 2027 World Cup could also be his final appearance, although he has not yet made a decision about his future.

India won the opening ODI against the West Indies by eight wickets, with the second match scheduled to be played in Guwahati on Wednesday.