Virat Kohli Confirms 2027 ODI World Cup Will Be His Last
Indian batting superstar Virat Kohli has confirmed that the 2027 ODI World Cup will be his last appearance in the tournament for India, saying he is ready to give everything to help the team lift the trophy.
The 37-year-old, who now plays only one international format, made the announcement during an interview with JioStar ahead of India’s ODI series against the West Indies, beginning in Thiruvananthapuram on Sunday.
The 2027 World Cup will be jointly hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
Virat Kohli Targets World Cup Glory In Final Appearance
Kohli said the prospect of playing his final ODI World Cup for India would serve as his biggest motivation heading into the tournament.
“For me, it’s the last World Cup I’m going to play for India. And that is my motivation. Like, you know, to leave everything out there. And of course, the goal is absolutely to win the World Cup. And whatever it takes, I’m absolutely ready,” he said.
Kohli was part of India’s World Cup-winning squad in 2011 under former captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni. The upcoming edition will offer him another opportunity to compete for the sport’s biggest prize in the 50-over format.
Kohli Explains Challenge Of ODI World Cup
The former India captain highlighted the physical and mental demands of a 50-over World Cup, describing the intensity of the tournament as unlike anything else.
“Because now, it’s about 10 games at a T20 level of intensity. But you are playing 2.5 T20 games in one day. And to maintain that intensity for 10 games in a big tournament and World Cup is a big deal. Also now, it’s in foreign conditions. It takes a lot out of you,” Kohli explained.
The tournament’s demanding schedule and overseas conditions will present a significant challenge for the Indian team.
Rohit Sharma Looks Ahead To 2027 World Cup
India’s former captain Rohit Sharma also spoke about his ambitions for the next ODI World Cup, insisting that he continues to have goals to pursue as long as he remains an active player.
“The thought will never cross my mind that the business I had is finished. As long as you’re playing, there is always something to look forward to. And I’m looking forward to the World Cup, looking at what lies ahead for me,” Rohit said.
He also highlighted the unique challenges of an ICC tournament, pointing to the need to adapt to different opponents and venues.
“When the World Cup is played, when we play an ICC tournament, it has its own unique challenge, because you face different opponents, you play at different venues. So, you have to prepare differently, think in a different way and that is the challenge,” he added.
India Begin West Indies ODI Series
India will begin their ODI series against the West Indies on Sunday, September 27, in Thiruvananthapuram.
The series will provide an opportunity for the team to build momentum as preparations continue for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
