You are not always right: Shahid Afridi slams Gautam Gambhir, backs Rohit-Virat to play 2027 World Cup

New Delhi: Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has backed veteran batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to play in the 2027 ODI World Cup. He insisted that both senior players are crucial for India's plans and should continue playing until the ODI World Cup.

Speaking to Telecom Asia, Afridi said that Rohit and Virat are the backbone of the Indian batting line-up, and the way they have played in the recent ODI series against South Africa, it can be said that they can play until the 2027 World Cup.

"You need to preserve both these stars. When India is playing against a weaker team, they can try some new players and rest Virat and Rohit," Afridi told Telecom Asia.

The former all-rounder also criticised the Team India head coach, with whom he shared some heated on-field moments during their playing careers. Notably, Gambhir has had mixed results with Team India, winning the 2025 Champions Trophy and the Asia Cup, and losing Test series against New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa.

"The way Gautam started his stint, it looked like he thought that what he thinks and says is right, but after some time, it was proved that you are not always right," Afridi added.

The former Pakistan cricketer also expressed joy over Rohit breaking his ODI six-hitting record. The India opener surpassed Afridi's tally of 351 ODI maximums during the second ODI match against South Africa.

"Records are meant to be broken, and this too is now bettered. I am happy that a player whom I have always liked has broken this record," Afridi said. The all-rounder further added that he watched Rohit bat during practice sessions, and his class impressed him.

Afridi further added that he knew Rohit would play for India one day. Rohit and Virat will next return to action during the three-match ODI series against New Zealand, starting January 11.