New Delhi : India bowling coach Morne Morkel has said that as long as Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are happy to put in the hard work and fitness, they can still make themselves available for the 2027 World Cup, albeit adding that the mega event is still a long way to go.
Morkel had just one caveat: Rohit and Kohli must stay fit and continue putting in the hard work. Since their return to international cricket against Australia in October, speculation has been swirling about their future and whether they will make the trip to South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe for the tournament.
Rohit and Kohli now feature only in ODIs for India after retiring from Tests and T20Is, leading to doubts about whether they can keep scoring without regular competitive cricket.
Reports indicate Rohit and Kohli may be asked to take part in the Vijay Hazare Trophy ahead of the New Zealand series to stay in tune with international demands.
Rohit was named Player of the Series against Australia after scoring a half-century and a hundred, though he did look rusty in the first ODI. Kohli, meanwhile, fell for consecutive ducks in the opening two games before bouncing back with an unbeaten 74 in Sydney.
“They are quality players. As long as they are happy to put in the hard work and the fitness. I have always believed in experience and to have that experience, you don’t find that anywhere,” Morkel said while speaking to the media.
“So for sure, if they mentally and physically feel that their bodies can do that, it is still a long way away, the World Cup, by all means,” Morkel added.
“I have played many games against them. I have had sleepless nights, bowling to them. So I know, as a bowler, what goes through your preparation when playing against them,” Morkel said
