As discussions around India’s squad for the 2027 ODI World Cup continue, several former cricketers have shared their preferred combinations. After Ravi Shastri and Ravichandran Ashwin, former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has also revealed his probable 15-member squad.
One of the biggest talking points is that several players who have been regularly backed under Gautam Gambhir’s coaching setup do not find a place in Gavaskar’s squad.
Rohit Sharma Preferred as Opener
Unlike those who want India to move forward with younger openers, Sunil Gavaskar has backed Rohit Sharma to continue opening the innings alongside Shubman Gill.
Former cricketers have repeatedly highlighted Rohit’s experience, especially in overseas conditions. Gavaskar also appears to believe that South African conditions will demand experienced players who understand pressure situations in ICC events.
Virat Kohli Retains the No. 3 Spot
There is no surprise at No. 3, with Virat Kohli retaining his place.
Kohli’s consistency in ODI cricket and his performances in major tournaments continue to make him an automatic selection in Gavaskar’s probable squad.
Middle Order Remains Stable
Sunil Gavaskar’s middle order includes:
- Shreyas Iyer
- KL Rahul
- Hardik Pandya
KL Rahul has been backed to continue batting at No. 5 rather than being shifted frequently in the batting order.
Hardik Pandya remains the first-choice pace-bowling all-rounder, provided he stays fit.
Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja Together
One selection that stands out is the inclusion of both Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja.
Many expected Washington Sundar to be part of the squad, considering his recent opportunities. However, Gavaskar has preferred Jadeja alongside Axar.
Pace Attack Led by Bumrah
The bowling attack includes:
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mohammed Siraj
- Harshit Rana
- Arshdeep Singh
Gavaskar has also retained Mohammed Siraj despite discussions around workload management.
Harshit Rana gets the nod as an additional fast-bowling option, while Arshdeep Singh has been backed ahead of several other contenders.
Kuldeep Leads the Spin Department
Kuldeep Yadav remains the specialist wrist-spinner in the squad.
Meanwhile, Ravichandran Ashwin had earlier suggested Bhuvneshwar Kumar as a possible option, but Gavaskar has instead preferred Arshdeep Singh.
Ishan Kishan and Nitish Kumar Reddy Included
Gavaskar has also included Ishan Kishan and Nitish Kumar Reddy in his probable squad.
Ishan is seen as a backup batting and wicketkeeping option, while Nitish Kumar Reddy provides cover for Hardik Pandya as a pace-bowling all-rounder.
Five Players Missing from Gavaskar’s Squad
Among the notable omissions are several players who have received opportunities in recent times under Gautam Gambhir’s tenure.
The players missing from Gavaskar’s probable squad include:
- Washington Sundar
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Prasidh Krishna
- Prince Yadav
- Gurnoor Brar
Their absence is likely to spark discussion among fans, especially with the ODI World Cup still some distance away.
Conclusion
Sunil Gavaskar’s World Cup 2027 Squad combines experienced campaigners with a few young players. While Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah remain the core of the side, the omission of several players who have recently been in contention has become the biggest talking point.
With more than a year still remaining before the tournament, India’s final squad will ultimately depend on form, fitness and performances over the coming months.
