Virat Kohli, Joe Root in Cheteshwar Pujara's World ODI XI | PC- AFP
As ODI cricket has again become the darling format, with the 2027 World Cup just in touching distance. Amidst the build-up, former Indian batter Cheteshwar Pujara has picked his current World XI, comprising six Indians and two West Indies players, but none from Australia or Pakistan.
Moreover, the former Test specialist named one player from England, South Africa and New Zealand. Notably, there is no place for Harry Brook, who is among the best ODI batters around.
Cheteshwar Pujara names Indian heavy current World ODI XI
On a video with Cricinfo, Cheteshwar Pujara named his current World ODI XI. The Indian top order, comprising Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli, was the first pick.
He picked Joe Root, who has the most ODI runs in 2026, along with the star from IND vs WI, Shai Hope, and KL Rahul for the middle order.
The South African pace-bowling all-rounder, Marco Jansen, was selected at number seven. He was followed by Kuldeep Yadav, the lone spinner in Pujara’s current World ODI XI.
Despite playing just two ODI matches in the last three years, Pujara picked Jasprit Bumrah as one of three pacers. Matt Henry and Jayden Seales were the last ones on the list.
Cheteshwar Pujara's current World ODI XI
Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Joe Root, KL Rahul, Shai Hope, Marco Jansen, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Jayden Seales, Matt Henry.
No Harry Brook in Pujara's team; Australian, Pakistani players ignored
Several calls have been made to debate Cheteshwar Pujara's place in the current World ODI XI. First among them is the exclusion of England captain Harry Brook, who recently smashed a double ton.
Moreover, there is no space for even one Australian player, who are currently the World Champions in the format. Despite Pakistan doing so well in the Tri-Series, Pujara ignored them.
Additionally, the former Indian batter named only one spinner in his team, although he named a quality bowling lineup for all seasons and conditions.
Rashid Khan and Bangladesh's Nahid Rana were also missing, despite being the top wicket-takers in the format this year.
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