Rohit Sharma is not Sanjay Manjrekar's pick as an opener for the 2027 ODI World Cup.

What happened?

Manjrekar stated that India's selectors should build their team from players in their peak, considering the next ODI World Cup is over a year away.

He added that ODI openers should be those players who could prove useful for India well beyond a single tournament.

"Opening in 50 overs is fun. It is a rehabilitation programme. That, I think, you should give to a player who is in his prime and has got another 5-10 years," Manjrekar said on Sony Sports.

Why it matters for Rohit Sharma

Manjrekar's opinion emphasizes the need for India to look at things from the perspective of the future and not go by mere reputation in the matter of selection.

With his fitness and consistency, Virat Kohli can very well be a candidate for the next World Cup, according to Manjrekar.

"I mean this will become controversial. But I think I should not care; I have not cared for all these years. We are in mid-2026, and that World Cup is in late 2027," Manjrekar pondered.

What comes next?

India is at an extremely sensitive phase of transition, with mounting tension between short-term stability and long-term vision.

The selection of both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for the upcoming England ODI series in July 2026 will depend on the experience of these players in key series prior to the 2027 World Cup.

On the other hand, with the number of ODIs in the schedule, India will have to balance the need for experienced players with the need to develop younger talent.

As the 2027 ODI World Cup approaches, India's team selection will be crucial in determining their chances of success.

Rohit Sharma's performance in the upcoming series will be closely watched, as he looks to secure his spot in the squad.

With the competition for places in the team heating up, Rohit Sharma will have to be at the top of his game to make a strong case for selection," Manjrekar added.

The road ahead

The road to the 2027 ODI World Cup will be long and challenging for Rohit Sharma and the Indian team.

They will have to navigate a tough schedule, with several key series and tournaments before the World Cup.

But with the right team selection and strategy, India can make a strong case for winning the tournament.

For now, Rohit Sharma's fate remains uncertain, as India's selectors weigh their options for the 2027 ODI World Cup squad.