2027, 2028 World Cups in mind: Rohit Sharma wants to keep Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer happy

Rohit Sharma Jokes About a T20I Comeback as 2027 World Cup Ambitions Continue

Rohit Sharma has given cricket fans another reason to discuss his international future after delivering a playful answer about a possible return to T20I cricket. Appearing on his television programme, Family Full House with Rohit Sharma, the former India captain joked that he would need to keep both Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer on his side if he wanted to reach two different World Cups.

The comment was made in jest, not as an announcement of a comeback. Rohit retired from T20 internationals after captaining India to the 2024 T20 World Cup title in Barbados. Still, his quip has prompted fresh online speculation about how long the veteran opener might continue playing and whether he could feature at the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Why Rohit Said He Needed Both Gill and Iyer

Actor Karan Wahi invited Rohit to take part in a light-hearted game and asked which player he would call in an emergency: Gill or Iyer. Rohit opted for both, linking his answer to India’s leadership arrangements and his own ambitions.

Gill is India’s current Test and ODI captain, while Iyer leads the side in T20 internationals. Rohit joked that staying in Gill’s good books would help him remain in contention for the 2027 ODI World Cup. After that tournament, he added, he would need to keep Iyer happy if he hoped to make a T20I return for the 2028 T20 World Cup.

“Both are captains of India now,” Rohit said, explaining that Gill is his captain at present and that he wants to play in the 2027 World Cup. He then added that a potential T20I comeback after the ODI tournament would mean keeping Iyer happy too. The punchline drew laughter from those in the studio and quickly circulated among fans on social media.

A joke, not a retirement reversal

Rohit’s remark should be read as humour rather than a change to his stated international plans. His T20I retirement followed India’s championship-winning campaign in 2024, bringing an end to a format in which he had been one of the team’s most recognisable batters and leaders. The 2028 T20 World Cup reference was part of the joke, not confirmation that he intends to return.

That distinction has not stopped fans from debating the possibility. A player’s future is often shaped by form, fitness, team requirements and personal choice, and Rohit’s recent ODI numbers have kept the conversation alive. For now, the clearest focus is his continued involvement in the one-day format and the prospect of India’s next major 50-over campaign.

Rohit Set to Play Under Gill and Iyer in New Zealand ODI Series

The joke has an immediate cricketing connection: Rohit is expected to play under both Gill and Iyer during India’s upcoming five-match ODI series against New Zealand. The series is scheduled to begin in Auckland on November 4 and finish in Mount Maunganui on November 15.

Gill is set to captain India for the first three matches. He and KL Rahul are then expected to leave the ODI squad to prepare for the opening Test against New Zealand in Wellington, scheduled to begin on November 19. Iyer will take charge of the final two one-day internationals, giving him an opportunity to lead the side in a different format.

The arrangement places Rohit in an unusual but straightforward position: an experienced senior batter working under two younger leaders during the same series. It also offers the team a chance to manage workloads ahead of a demanding schedule, while giving Gill and Iyer further experience in leadership roles.

Strong ODI Form Strengthens Rohit’s 2027 World Cup Prediction

Rohit’s form is central to any prediction about his place in India’s plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup. In his last 10 one-day internationals, he has scored 554 runs at an average of 55.40 and a strike rate of 110.50. Those figures underline the value of his aggressive approach at the top of the order, where a fast start can shape the entire innings.

His recent performances have included a 138 from 110 balls against England at Lord’s and a 101 from 75 deliveries against the West Indies in Guwahati. Such innings demonstrate that he remains capable of making a major impact, rather than simply occupying a place through reputation. His ability to attack during the powerplay could be particularly useful in a World Cup, where early momentum can put pressure on the opposition.

Age will be part of the discussion. Rohit turns 40 in April 2027, several months before the tournament, so selectors will need to weigh his experience and output against fitness, form and the development of younger players. A strong run of performances would strengthen his case, but selection will ultimately depend on India’s plans closer to the event.

Experience and unfinished World Cup business

Rohit has already played a defining role in India’s recent ODI World Cup campaigns. At the 2023 tournament, he scored 597 runs at an average of 125.94, providing aggressive starts throughout the competition. India reached the final but lost to Australia in Ahmedabad, leaving the team short of the title despite Rohit’s outstanding contribution.

The 2027 edition could therefore offer a new opportunity for the opener, provided he remains fit and continues to produce runs. India are scheduled to begin their campaign against Australia in Cape Town on October 7, 2027. The tournament will demand more than individual batting performances: adaptability to conditions, sound decision-making and a balanced squad will all be important.

Rohit’s experience could help India in those areas, especially during high-pressure moments. His record as a captain and his familiarity with major tournaments give him insight that cannot be measured by statistics alone. At the same time, the team will need to build a long-term structure around its next generation of leaders, including Gill and Iyer.

What comes next for Rohit Sharma?

For now, the most reasonable prediction is that Rohit’s immediate international focus remains ODI cricket. His television-show joke has added entertainment to the discussion, but it does not alter his T20I retirement. The New Zealand series will provide another opportunity to assess his form and how he fits into India’s plans under Gill and Iyer.

If Rohit continues scoring at his current rate, the 2027 World Cup conversation is likely to remain active. Whether he ultimately makes the squad will depend on his performances, fitness and the selectors’ assessment closer to the tournament. Until then, fans can enjoy the humour behind his answer—and watch to see whether his bat keeps making the strongest argument for his future.