Wasim Jaffer backs Indian left-hander to replace Kohli at No. 3

Wasim Jaffer has backed an Indian left-hander to replace Virat Kohli at number three in the ODI batting order. Kohli confirmed that the 2027 ODI World Cup will be his last for India, meaning the team will need to find a replacement at the position he has held for many years. The India A and senior team selectors have not yet named their squads for the upcoming tour of New Zealand.

Kohli scored 139 not out, 29 and a golden duck in the three-match ODI series against the West Indies that concluded on October 3. The golden duck was his first in ODIs in 2481 days and only his fourth in the format. AB de Villiers described Kohli's current form as a third peak and said both Kohli and Rohit Sharma should be in India's 2027 World Cup squad.

Rohit Sharma scored 32, 101 and 92 in the three ODIs against the West Indies. He has 35 ODI centuries and turns 39 in April 2027. Sunil Gavaskar said he wants Rohit to finish his international career with more ODI hundreds than his age at retirement.