Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has named Virat Kohli as the greatest white-ball player the world has ever seen, placing him ahead of legends such as Sachin Tendulkar, Sir Vivian Richards among others.

Ganguly also voiced his strong support for both Kohli and Rohit Sharma to lead India's charge in the 2027 ODI World Cup, slated to be held in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia from October 2 to November 21.

“Both Rohit and Virat are champions. I know it’s still a long way (to ODI World Cup 2027), still one year away from the World Cup, but I am sure they are going to make it because they don’t play the other formats. They just play the 50 overs, which keeps them fresh, and they will be raring to finish on a high in that World Cup," Ganguly said in a Star Sports video.

“Virat is the best white-ball player in the world ever and he will be looking forward to finishing off in his style. Rohit’s form has just picked up after England and I hope he will continue and keep playing well for India," he added.

For Kohli and Rohit, the 2027 ODI World Cup presents a final opportunity to cap off stellar international careers with championship glory.

India will begin their World Cup campaign with a Group A clash against Australia at the Newlands Stadium in Cape Town on October 7.

India’s marquee clash with arch-rivals Pakistan is slated for October 10 at the iconic Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg.

India’s next Group A match is due to be held on October 14 against Afghanistan in Tshwane. The Men in Blue will then face Qualifier A on October 17 in Bloemfontein, while their last group match is scheduled against Zimbabwe in Victoria Falls on October 24.