Dubai: Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting believes that the ongoing ODI series in Australia will be crucial in determining whether Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma can continue playing international cricket until the 2027 World Cup.
Both players returned to action for India after a long break, featuring in their first game since March. However, the duo — now focusing solely on ODI cricket — struggled against Australia’s pace attack on a lively Perth pitch, as India went down by seven wickets in a collective batting failure.
The second ODI of the three-match series will be played in Adelaide on Thursday, where conditions are expected to favour the Indian batters more than in Perth.
Speaking on ICC Review alongside former India head coach Ravi Shastri, Ponting said that rather than focusing on the distant 2027 World Cup, Kohli and Rohit should aim for short-term goals to stay motivated and sharp.
“The one thing I don’t like hearing from anyone is, ‘I’ve achieved everything in the game,’” Ponting said. “You’ve got to keep setting short-term goals instead of just hanging on to make it to the 2027 World Cup.
“Virat has always been highly motivated. I’m sure he’s set himself personal targets for this series rather than just waiting around for the next World Cup.
“At their best, both of them are automatic picks in India’s XI — but the real question is, can they get back to that level before the next World Cup? We’ll find out soon enough during this series.”
‘No hurry to judge’ — Shastri
While Rohit and Kohli’s performances in the first ODI were below expectations, Ravi Shastri urged patience, saying the two senior players deserve time to regain their rhythm after a long layoff following the IPL.
“When you return from a long break, there’s bound to be some rust,” Shastri said. “It’s never easy for any team to arrive in Australia just a couple of days before a game in Perth and immediately adapt to the extra bounce and pace.
“Time will tell. I’m in no hurry to judge. It’s all about how much you’re enjoying the sport and how much hunger and passion you still have for the game.
“If they’re still enjoying the game and have that drive, then they deserve time. They have the class and the experience — I’d rather wait than rush to conclusions.”
