Sunil Gavaskar backs Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli to play T20 World Cup in June

Former captain Sunil Gavaskar has backed Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to play in the T20 World Cup in June, saying the two senior players are not only the key batters but also terrific fielders in the Indian team.

The ICC recently announced the schedule for the T20 World Cup which is set to begin on June 1 this year with the USA and West Indies co-hosting the marquee tournament.

Gavaskar, while speaking on Star Sports, backed Kohli and Rohit to be part of India's squad for the T20 World Cup. Gavaskar lauded Kohli's recent form and performance in the ODI World Cup 2023, where the star batter was the top run scorer with 765 runs in 11 innings. The former Indian captain also mentioned the fielding of both players being a key factor in their inclusion, apart from their seniority.

"What makes me feel good is their fielding. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are still great fielders and will be of great help on the field. In addition to seniority in the dressing room, they will contribute on the field, too," Gavaskar told Star Sports.

"Sometimes, you get slow when you are 35-36; your throw isn't that good anymore. So, there are discussions over where to keep you while setting the field. That's not a problem for these two because they are still terrific fielders," he added.

While Gavaskar acknowledged uncertainty about Rohit leading Team India in the T20 World Cup 2024, he expressed confidence in the substantial benefits the Indian skipper’s presence would bring to the team. The 75-year-old urged considering these factors in determining Rohit and Kohli’s return to T20I cricket, emphasizing their all-around contributions and experience.