The two stalwarts of Indian cricket, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, will no longer be enjoying direct entry to the World Cups. Currently in their mid-30s, Ro-Ko will have to prove their spot during the coming three-match away ODI series against Australia. With limited ODI matches this season, the Board of Cricket Control in India is looking forward to the 2027 World Cup. Snubbing Ro from the captaincy was one such step to let Shubman Gill get accustomed to the captaincy before the World Cup. However, a report from the Times of India said that the Board is fearing a dip in Ro-Ko's form, as they will be reaching their late 30s during the 2027 World Cup. The report said that it was the collective decision of head coach Gautam Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar to sideline Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli considering the age factor. A BCCI source said, as quoted by the TOI, "It has been a collective effort by Gambhir and Agarkar. They understand that it will be tough for both Rohit and Kohli to be at their peak after two years, given that they are in their late 30s." Read also: Is Ravindra Jadeja missing Ashwin? Vice Captain speaks on partner's absence It further added that BCCI didn't want them to get caught off-guard with a struggling form. It said, "They didn’t want to be caught off guard if suddenly Rohit or Kohli’s form dipped. It would have created chaos in the leadership group. The duo announcing retirement from Tests days before the selection for the England tour was a case in point." Rohit Sharma's retirement from the Test came right before the England series Test squad was announced. Currently Rohit Sharma has been working on his fitness and has passed the fitness Test at the BCCI Centre of Excellence. However, he was axed from captaincy and the squad was declared on Saturday for the ODI series against Australia. Australia, as per reports, are preparing to give a grand farewell to the duo and is unlikely to play some big roles in the South Africa-hosted ODI World Cup, even if they play it.