The countdown to the 2027 ICC ODI World Cup has already begun, with anticipation steadily building ahead of the tournament that will be co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. After finishing as runners-up in the 2023 edition, India will once again head into the competition as one of the strongest contenders for the coveted trophy.
The Men in Blue are set to begin a new era under captain Shubman Gill, who is expected to lead the side in the global event. However, one of the biggest talking points remains whether the Indian team management will continue to back the experienced duo of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma for another World Cup campaign. While that decision will unfold with time, several former cricketers have already started picking their preferred Indian XI for the tournament. Joining that conversation, former India opener Wasim Jaffer has revealed the playing XI he believes should represent the country at the 2027 World Cup.
Wasim Jaffer picks his India XI for the ODI World Cup 2027
Jaffer has largely opted for a blend of proven experience and established match-winners, retaining the core of India’s ODI setup despite the transition in leadership. His lineup begins with veteran opener Rohit alongside captain Gill at the top of the order, a combination that has delivered consistently in the 50-over format.
Kohli slots in at No. 3, with Shreyas Iyer occupying the crucial No. 4 position. The middle order is further strengthened by wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul, while Hardik Pandya provides the much-needed balance as the pace-bowling all-rounder.
Jaffer has picked Axar Patel as the spin-bowling all-rounder, giving India additional depth in both batting and bowling. Wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav leads the spin attack, while the pace unit comprises Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj.
Wasim Jaffer’s India playing XI for ODI World Cup 2027: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill (captain), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wicketkeeper), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj
Expectations high under Shubman Gill’s leadership
The 2027 ODI World Cup is expected to mark a defining chapter in Shubman Gill’s career as he prepares to lead India on cricket’s biggest stage. Having emerged as one of the world’s premier batters over the last few years, Gill now carries the added responsibility of guiding a team eager to end its long wait for another 50-over World Cup title.
While the young captain is expected to shape the future of Indian cricket, the presence of senior figures such as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami could prove invaluable if they remain part of the squad. Their experience in handling high-pressure knockout matches would complement Gill’s leadership and provide stability during crucial moments.
India’s blend of youth and experience has often been viewed as one of its greatest strengths, and Jaffer’s selection reflects that philosophy. Although the final squad will depend on form, fitness and performances over the next year, discussions surrounding India’s ideal World Cup XI have already gathered momentum.
