When it comes to the Indian team, the names of skipper Rohit Sharma and star batsman Virat Kohli have been discussed during retirement debates among fans and experts. Kohli’s former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) teammate AB de Villiers feels that it might not be a bad idea for Kohli to say goodbye if India go on to win this World Cup.

As per the former Mr 360 degree batsman, it’s tough to say whether the talismanic batter will play the 2027 ODI World Cup or not.

“I know Kohli would love travelling to South Africa for the 2027 World Cup, but it’s very difficult to say. It is a long time away. Let’s focus on this one first, I think that is what Virat Kohli would tell you. I think if they win this World Cup, it might not be a bad time to say, ‘Thank you very much. I am maybe just going to play Test cricket for the next few years and a little bit of IPL, enjoy the last bit of my career, have enough family time, and say goodbye to everyone’,” said De Villiers on his official YouTube channel.

Though Bangladesh have been eliminated from the tournament, the excitement surrounding this match is palpable. It is driven by the fierce rivalry that has intensified between India and Bangladesh in recent times.

Amid the uncertainty in weather, India in all likelihood will test its bench strength ahead of the ODI World Cup.

The team management is set to give Mr 360 degree batsman Suryakumar Yadav a chance in place of star batter Virat Kohli and expect him to unleash his explosive brand of batting. Partnering him at No. 4, will be Shreyas Iyer, who missed the last two matches due to back spasms. However, he really sweat it out in the nets the day prior to the game.

Team India’s premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah could make way for veteran pacer Mohammed Shami. With a big final awaiting, it only makes sense for India to give their main speedster a breather.

As per Ganguly, southpaw Jaiswal’s batting ability will add variety to India’s top-order line-up in the mega event.

“Scoring a hundred on debut is always massive. I too have done it, so I know how special it is. Even technique-wise, he seems really good. A left-handed batsman’s presence in the team always helps. So, having him in the World Cup squad is a must,” said Ganguly during an interview.

However, Jaiswal has been in the Asian Games squad, which basically comprises players not in contention for the World Cup as the schedule of the Asiad clashes with that of the 50-over event.

Notably, Jaiswal broke into the scene after having a magnificent Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 season. Based on his performances in IPL 2023, he earned a maiden call-up for the tour of West Indies. He was immediately handed the debut cap for the first Test where he scored a record 171 in India’s resounding innings victory.