Former Pakistan pace spearhead Shoaib Akhtar has voiced a strong desire to see Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Babar Azam feature in the ICC World Cup 2027, calling them irreplaceable assets to world cricket.
While Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have already retired from T20 internationals, and Babar Azam’s place in Pakistan’s shorter formats remains uncertain, speculation continues over whether the trio will make it to the 50-over World Cup, scheduled to be held in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
Shoaib made these remarks during a short visit to Dhaka, where he joined the Dhaka Capitals’ promotional campaign after being appointed mentor by the BPL franchise. The former speedster said he hopes the senior stars remain part of their respective ODI setups and continue leading their teams over the next four years.
I really want Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Babar Azam to play the World Cup in 2027.
“Rohit Is a Team and a Half”
Praising India’s senior batters, Shoaib highlighted their recent performances and match-winning ability.
We just got a couple of hundreds from Kohli, who is one of the greatest players in modern-day history. Rohit is a formidable force, he needs to be out there.
He went on to underline Rohit Sharma’s impact at the top of the order: “Honestly, having Rohit Sharma in the team… he’s a team and a half. He’s the one man who can take the game away within 10 overs.”
Babar Azam: “An Asset for Pakistan”
Shoaib also threw his weight behind Babar Azam, urging the Pakistan captain to express himself freely.
Babar Azam is looking good. He’s an asset for us and a star for my country. He really needs to go out there and express himself, and I’m sure he’s going to do just fine.I really hope to see all three of them in 2027..
Akthar Calls for Rule Changes to Help Fast Bowlers
Beyond batting, Shoaib turned his attention to fast bowling, calling on the ICC to relax bouncer restrictions in white-ball cricket. Currently, the ICC allows two bouncers per over in ODIs and one in T20Is.
I want people to see fast bowlers bowling their hearts out — terrorising batters with pace and taking wickets.
He proposed allowing three to four bouncers per over, using one cricket ball, and adjusting totals to bring excitement back into the game.
“Break My Speed Record”
Shoaib, who holds the world record for the fastest delivery ever bowled (161.3 kmph) against England in the 2003 World Cup, said he hopes the next generation surpasses him.
“Nahid Rana, Taskin Ahmed, Bumrah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah — they’re all quick. And more are coming up in Pakistan. I really want someone to come along, break my speed record, and bowl as fast and as hurtful as possible in the coming years.”
