Virat Kohli makes a major announcement—2027 World Cup will be his last; what will he do to make India champions?
Indian cricket legend Virat Kohli has clarified his stance regarding the 2027 ODI World Cup. He has confirmed that the 2027 World Cup, to be hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, will be the last World Cup of his career. Speaking to JioStar ahead of the upcoming ODI series against the West Indies, Kohli stated that his primary goal now is to help the Indian team win the World Cup.
Virat Kohli has stated that the 2027 World Cup will be extremely special for him. The 37-year-old has retired from Test and T20 International cricket and currently plays for the Indian team in the ODI format. The 2027 tournament will mark the fifth World Cup of his career; he has previously been part of the Indian squads for the 2011, 2015, 2019, and 2023 editions.
Kohli’s goal is clear: he wants to win the World Cup trophy for India
Kohli left no room for ambiguity regarding his next major objective. He stated that he is ready to give his all on the field and has his sights set firmly on the trophy. This statement comes as the Indian team begins its preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup, with upcoming ODI matches viewed as part of this build-up.
Virat aims to play aggressive cricket, free from external pressure
Virat also expressed his desire to play his final World Cup campaign without unnecessary pressure. He believes that modern ODI cricket has evolved rapidly, with teams consistently posting high scores. In such a scenario, batters must be willing to take calculated risks based on the situation and score runs at a brisk pace to meet the team's requirements.
Kohli became a world champion in 2011; now eyes the trophy again in 2027
Virat Kohli was a member of the Indian team that won the World Cup in 2011. Later, in 2023, India reached the final on home soil but lost to Australia. Now, Kohli has the opportunity to compete in another World Cup in 2027. This time, he hopes to make this significant milestone in his international career memorable by lifting the trophy. The next phase of preparations for the 2027 World Cup will kick off with the West Indies series.
A three-match ODI series between India and the West Indies is set to begin on September 27, 2026. The Indian team's schedule includes several other ODI matches beyond this, which will further advance preparations for the 2027 World Cup. The presence of Rohit Sharma alongside Virat Kohli adds experience to the Indian ODI squad, while Shubman Gill shoulders the responsibility of captaincy.