Ravichandran Ashwin slams Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s ‘untouchable’ status in bombshell take

Ravichandran Ashwin drops explosive verdict on Kohli and Rohit Sharma

Ravichandran Ashwin has fired a salvo at India’s selectors by calling Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s places in the team ‘untouchable.’ The veteran off-spinner’s blunt take came during a candid interview on 21 July 2026, sparking immediate debate over squad selection ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup.

What did Ravichandran Ashwin say?

In remarks that quickly went viral, Ashwin argued that Kohli and Sharma’s experience and leadership alone justify their automatic spots. **“No one can touch them,”** he said. **“Dropping them isn’t just tough-it’s impossible right now.”** The comment landed just days after India’s selectors faced criticism for axing both veterans from the ODI squad against Australia in June 2026.

Why it matters for Ravichandran Ashwin

Ashwin’s stance puts him at odds with pundits who’ve questioned Kohli’s recent form and Sharma’s fitness. Yet the off-spinner framed the debate around legacy, not just numbers. **“They’ve carried this team for a decade,”** he added. **“You don’t bench legends for a dip in averages.”** His words carry weight given his own status as India’s second-highest wicket-taker in Tests.

What comes next?

The fallout could reshape India’s XI for the T20 World Cup in October 2026. Selectors now face a public relations headache: ignore Ashwin’s advice and risk backlash, or bench two icons and face the music. The Board of Control for Cricket in India has yet to comment, but the pressure is on.