“Rohit and Virat Need Clarity They’ll Stay Even After a Bad Series”: Yuvraj Singh

Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh has called for clear communication from the team management regarding the future of senior players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, saying they must be assured of their place even if they endure a lean patch.

Speaking to JioStar, Yuvraj said the decision on whether the duo should continue lies entirely with the selectors and team management, but clarity is crucial if they are part of plans for the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2027.

“I have been in that position… It’s not fair for us to judge whether they should play. If you want them for the World Cup, you have to back them and tell them there is no stress that if they don’t have a good series, they will be dropped,” he said.

Yuvraj emphasised that senior players deserve transparency, noting that uncertainty during his own career affected him. “You need to have that clarity from the coach, captain and selectors. What Rohit and Virat have done for India is unbelievable, and it’s important to tell them clearly what the team expects,” he added.

The remarks come after Rohit and Kohli stitched a 113-run partnership in the third ODI against England, underlining their continued importance in India’s ODI setup.

Yuvraj also highlighted the need to strike a balance between experience and youth, urging the management to take firm decisions. “If they are in your plans, secure them. If not, be honest. It may be a tough call, but players appreciate honesty,” he said.

Raising concerns over team combination, he pointed out that young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal needs more game time ahead of the World Cup. “If he doesn’t play enough now, he will feel pressure later. You don’t want to repeat past mistakes,” he noted, referring to instances like the 2019 World Cup when injuries forced inexperienced players into key roles.

On team selection, Yuvraj questioned the decision to leave out spinner Kuldeep Yadav in the third ODI, saying conditions might have favoured a spinner. However, he acknowledged that such calls rest with the team management.

Reflecting on India’s recent performances, he said phases of setbacks are natural despite recent successes, including multiple ICC titles. “The game levels everyone… The team is in transition, and it’s time to rethink and bounce back,” he added.