Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan backed Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma for the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia, citing that their immense experience and class make them vital for the Indian team.

Kohli and Rohit called time on their Test careers within a gap of five days in May last year. Having retired from T20Is in 2024, the veteran campaigners are now only playing the ODI format.

With fewer ODIs being scheduled these days, questions remain over the ageing duo's participation in next year’s quadrennial event. Furthermore, chief selector Ajit Agarkar and Gautam Gambhir have not given a firm commitment, keeping the decision on their involvement for the World Cup coy.

However, Dhawan threw his weight behind the senior batters, who both had a productive series in England last month.

While Kohli scored two half-centuries in three ODIs, Rohit brushed off retirement chatter after slamming 138 in the series-decider at Lord’s.

"They are legends, they have performed for the country for so many years. Whether it's Virat or Rohit, all of us have had a relationship since we were around 16 years old. They are 2-3 years younger than me. And it's a matter of great joy that they are preparing now. Rohit recently scored a hundred at Lord's, so he scored a wonderful century and showed how his bat talks. Well, he's been showing it for so many years. And when a bit of a tough situation came, he replied with his bat," Dhawan said while speaking to ANI.

"And as for Virat, the more he is praised, the less it is. Keeping himself so fit, performing so well. And I'm sure that both of them will add a lot of value in the World Cup and help the team win," he added.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will next be in action during the three-match ODI series against the West Indies at home from September 27 to October 3.