In the ever-evolving landscape of international cricket, the rhythm of the game is as crucial as the swing of the bat. Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan recently weighed in on a topic that has sparked debate among fans and pundits alike: how will the reduced frequency of ODI cricket affect seasoned stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli as they gear up for the 2027 World Cup?

Drawing from his own experience as a one-format player in the latter part of his career, Dhawan offered an honest and insightful perspective. "Yes, when you play one format at the International level, your flow does get disrupted," he admitted in a recent interview. It's a challenge that many cricketers face when match opportunities become more spaced out—a reality that can throw even the most disciplined players off their game.

However, Dhawan was quick to emphasize that Rohit and Kohli are not your average players. "They are matured individuals," he noted. "It is a challenge, but they know how to convert a challenge into an opportunity." Instead of dwelling on the lack of match time, these veterans pivot their focus toward maintaining peak fitness. "Players focus on fitness because you are not playing too many games," Dhawan explained, highlighting a key strategy for staying match-ready.

Speaking of fitness, Dhawan couldn't help but praise the transformation he's witnessed. "If you look at their fitness, Virat was always fit, but Rohit has undergone a tremendous transformation," he said, acknowledging the dedication both players have shown to their physical conditioning. This discipline, he believes, will be their anchor as they navigate a lighter ODI schedule.

Looking ahead, Dhawan sees the scheduling as a silver lining. With the 2027 World Cup on the horizon, the upcoming calendar is packed with ODI matches, giving both Rohit and Kohli ample opportunity to find their rhythm. "Now with the 2027 WC round the corner, they will get to play a lot of ODI matches," Dhawan pointed out. Contrasting this with his own experience—where back-to-back T20 World Cups in 2021 and 2022 left him with few and far between ODI games—he expressed confidence that match exposure won't be an issue for the duo.

And the numbers back up that confidence. Rohit Sharma, who led India to a memorable Champions Trophy triumph in 2025 before handing over the captaincy to Shubman Gill, enjoyed a stellar year with the bat. In 14 matches, he amassed 650 runs at an impressive average of 50, including two centuries and four half-centuries. Virat Kohli, never one to be outdone, has also been in formidable ODI form, proving that class is indeed permanent.

For cricket enthusiasts and sports apparel lovers alike, this serves as a reminder that true champions adapt, evolve, and rise above the challenges. Whether you're gearing up for a World Cup or just your weekend game, the right mindset—and the right gear—can make all the difference.