'2027 ODI World Cup still a long way away': India coach turns head with bold statement about Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma

Morne Morkel gives his take on Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma taking part in the 2027 World Cup. (Image: AFP)

India bowling coach Morne Morkel believes that the legendary duo of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma can make it to the 2027 ODI World Cup but believes that fitness will play a huge factor. The 41-year-old's comments came ahead of the first ODI against South Africa set to be played in Ranchi on Sunday (November 29).

"It's still a long way away.. They're quality players. As long as they're happy to put the hard work in and the fitness," said Morkel at the pre-match press conference.

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Morkel also said that both "can for sure play the 2027 World Cup if they mentally and physically feel that their bodies can do that."

"I've always believed in experience and to have that experience, you don't find that anywhere. They've won trophies, the World Cup, by all means. I've played many games against them. I've had sleepless nights bowling to them. So I know as a bowler what goes through your preparation playing against them. So for me, definitely on board with that (on Kohli and Rohit playing the World Cup)," he added.

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The 3-match ODI series will be played in Ranchi, Raipur on Wednesday and Visakhapatnam on Saturday.

Rohit Sharma enters the series in sublime form as he scored a century and fifty in the previous ODI series against Australia. Virat Kohli on the other hand also scored 74 in the final game of that series after two back to back ducks in the first two matches.