Former India captain Virat Kohli says he will not continue playing one-day internationals if he feels he has to constantly prove his value to the team ahead of the 2027 Cricket World Cup.
The 37-year-old, who retired from Tests and T20 internationals, remains available for India in the 50-over format and played a major role in their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 triumph.
Speaking on the RCB Podcast, Kohli said he only wants to continue if both he and the team management believe he can still contribute positively.
“If I can add value to the environment that I’m a part of and the environment feels like I can add value, I’ll be seen,” Kohli said.
“If I’m made to feel like I need to prove my worth and my value, I’m not in that space.”
Veteran batter highlights commitment and work ethic
Kohli stressed that his approach towards preparation and fitness has never changed despite being in the latter stages of his career.
The former skipper said he is still willing to give everything for the team, whether with the bat, in the field or while running between the wickets.
“You want me to run from boundary to boundary for 40 overs in an ODI game, I will do that without a complaint,” he said.
“I prepare for the fact that I will field 50 overs every ball like it’s the last ball I’m going to play in my career.”
Kohli added that after maintaining such standards, he does not want to be in an environment where his contribution is repeatedly questioned.
Kohli remains one of ODI cricket’s greatest players
Virat Kohli is widely regarded as one of the finest one-day batters in cricket history. He was part of India’s victorious squad at the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup and has scored 14,797 ODI runs in 311 matches at an average of 58.71.
Only Sachin Tendulkar has scored more ODI runs than Kohli.
The right-hander is especially known for his chasing ability, averaging 65.78 in successful run chases. In South Africa, one of the hosts of the 2027 World Cup, Kohli averages 76.38 from 20 ODI matches.
‘Either trust me or move on’
Kohli also hinted at frustration over mixed messaging regarding his role in the side, saying some people were “trying to complicate it” for him.
“Either tell me on day one I’m not good enough or I’m not needed,” he said.
“Or if you’ve said I’m good enough and you say we’re not even thinking otherwise, then be quiet.”
Discussion about this post