Overview
- Ashwin said on his YouTube channel that he is unsure ODIs will remain relevant beyond the 2027 World Cup, citing reliance on stars like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
- He urged the ICC to follow a FIFA-style model with league play and a World Cup held less frequently to rebuild prestige, criticizing the current churn of ICC events.
- Pointing to packed stands for the Vijay Hazare Trophy when Rohit and Kohli returned and scored centuries, he argued that star appearances temporarily prop up interest.
- Irfan Pathan separately pressed for longer five-match ODI series and more triangular or quadrangular tournaments to showcase ODI specialists such as Rohit and Kohli.
- India’s next assignment is a three-match ODI series against New Zealand starting January 11, framed as part of preparations for the 2027 World Cup, after Rohit and Kohli led India’s ODI scoring in 2025.