Ajinkya Rahane Takes Strong Stand On Rohit Sharma [Source: AFP]Former Indian cricketer Ajinkya Rahane took a strong stand for Rohit Sharma by supporting his candidature for the 2027 ODI World Cup, which is set to take place in South Africa. Rahane believes that Rohit’s inclusion should be a no-brainer choice for the selectors.The 2027 ODI World Cup is still over a year away, but preparations for the big event have already begun. But the main question revolves around Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli on whether the two seniors will be backed despite being in their late 30s.Ajinkya Rahane wants to see Rohit Sharma playing the 2027 ODI World CupTouching on this topic, Ajinkya Rahane, who recently retired from international cricket, said that there should be no uncertainty over Rohit Sharma’s World Cup place. He wants the Indian team management to tell Rohit clearly that he is part of the plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup. His argument is that Rohit's contribution and experience are too valuable to evaluate series by series. “I think it is important to tell Rohit Sharma he is going to play the 2027 ODI World Cup. Just look at his contribution over several years. It has been amazing. You need the experience of such a player at a World Cup. There should be no discussions around it. You can’t look at it series by series because he is such a big player,” Rahane told the Indian Express.Also Read - BCCI At Crossroads Over Rohit Sharma In India’s World Cup 2027 SquadRahane values experience over formInterestingly, according to Ajinkya Rahane, Rohit Sharma shouldn't be judged on the basis of his form. He feels that World Cups contain high-pressure matches where having an experienced player can make a major difference. Even if Rohit's performances fluctuate, Rahane feels his knowledge and temperament could prove decisive in crucial games. “Cricket is a game of rhythm, whether you are a youngster or an experienced player. There is no need to talk about his quality. There should be no debate. If he wants to play the 2027 World Cup, he should play. You can’t doubt his intensity and attitude. Performances can go up and down, but his experience could be useful in crucial matches," he added.He also made the same argument for Virat Kohli, saying both senior batters should be allowed to play freely and continue through the 2027 World Cup if they want to. “We should let them play freely. Everyone gets to that stage in their careers, but seniors also like it when the captain and the team management back them. Let them just play till the 2027 World Cup.”Why is Rohit's place being debated? Rohit Sharma is still playing ODI cricket after stepping away from Tests and T20Is, but his role has attracted scrutiny. He is no longer the captain and is playing as a specialist opener.However, despite being 39 years old, Rohit is working hard on his fitness and is performing at his absolute best. Yet, many feel he doesn’t fit into the 2027 World Cup squad as his form has not been consistent.Recently, rumours spread that Rohit Sharma was told to retire from the ODI format after the England series. But it turned out to be a hoax as Rohit shut down the haters in style.Also Read - Harshit Rana's Latest Injury Setback Contradicts VVS Laxman's 'GPS' Statement
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