Rohit And Kohli Have One Job in IND vs WI, Says Aakash Chopra

With the 2027 ODI World Cup now less than a year away, Aakash Chopra believes the immediate focus for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli should be straightforward: keep scoring runs and contributing to India's success.

Speaking on JioHotstar's 'Follow the Blues', JioStar expert Chopra discussed India's 15-member squad for the three-match ODI series against the West Indies, which begins on September 27.

"The World Cup is just one year away now, and I know that if Rohit and Kohli get in, they'll score runs, win you matches, and possibly win you trophies," Chopra said. "So, looking at it from this perspective, the only expectation from Rohit and Kohli is just this, keep scoring runs."

Jadeja faces competition for World Cup spot

Chopra also highlighted Ravindra Jadeja's return to the ODI squad and the competition for all-rounder spots ahead of the World Cup.

He pointed to India's decision to pull Nitish Kumar Reddy out of the Asian Games squad to feature in the West Indies series, suggesting the team is looking at options who can contribute with both bat and ball if Hardik Pandya is unavailable.

"Ravindra Jadeja will have to, of course, take wickets and score runs. Fielding has always been his strong suit," Chopra said.

However, with Axar Patel, Jadeja and Washington Sundar all competing for places, Chopra expects the battle for the final World Cup squad to remain tight.

"Not all of them will go to South Africa. So, someone will be left out, and therefore, every time you get an opportunity, you have to grab it with both hands."

Pant's ODI omission and India's bench options

Chopra also discussed Rishabh Pant's omission from the ODI squad, contrasting his position in India's red-ball plans with his current status in white-ball cricket.

While Pant remains an important part of India's Test setup and has been named captain of the Rest of India side, Chopra said the latest ODI selection suggests the selectors have made their position clear.

"For white-ball cricket, as of now, I think this selection committee has made up its mind," he said.

The series will also provide opportunities for players competing for reserve spots ahead of the 2027 World Cup. Chopra identified Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad as two players who could strengthen their claims, while also highlighting Auqib Nabi, who has travelled with the team without yet making his playing XI debut.

Parthiv Patel, meanwhile, praised the squad selection, particularly KL Rahul's elevation to vice-captain in place of Shreyas Iyer, who is at the Asian Games, as well as Dhruv Jurel's inclusion.

India and West Indies will play three ODIs from September 27 to October 3.