Virat Kohli has confirmed that the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup will be his final World Cup for India, with the former captain hoping to finish his campaign with another title.
Virat Kohli has revealed that he will play his last ODI World Cup for India in 2027.
The tournament, which will be hosted by South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe, is expected to be a significant moment in the career of one of India’s most successful batters.
Speaking to JioStar, Kohli said the upcoming tournament would be his final World Cup and that winning the trophy would be his biggest motivation.
For Kohli, the 2027 edition could also be his fifth appearance at an ODI World Cup. He made his debut in the tournament in 2011, when India went on to lift the trophy. He was also part of the Indian squads at the 2015, 2019 and 2023 World Cups.
Kohli’s impressive World Cup record
Kohli has been among the leading performers in World Cup cricket.
He has played 37 matches at the tournament and scored 1,795 runs at an average of 59.83. His record includes five centuries and 12 fifties, with a best score of 117.
His performances have also contributed to his reputation as one of the most consistent batters in ODI cricket.
Why Kohli believes the ODI World Cup is different
The Indian star also spoke about the demanding nature of a 50-over World Cup.
Unlike shorter formats, an ODI World Cup requires players to maintain their intensity over a longer period and across several matches. Kohli also highlighted the challenge of adapting to different venues and playing conditions during a tournament.
The 2027 edition will be particularly demanding as the competition will take place across three countries.
ODI cricket is now Kohli’s focus
Kohli has already stepped away from Test cricket and T20I cricket. His focus is now firmly on the 50-over format and the next ODI World Cup.
He currently has 14,941 ODI runs from 302 innings, including 54 centuries and 79 half-centuries. His highest ODI score is 183.
At the 2027 World Cup, Kohli will have the opportunity to add another chapter to a career that already includes a World Cup title from 2011.
A final World Cup campaign
For Kohli, the 2027 World Cup will not simply be another international tournament. It is set to be his final appearance on cricket’s biggest 50-over stage.
India will be hoping their experienced batter can make the most of the opportunity as they compete for the trophy in South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe.
Kohli has already experienced the feeling of winning a World Cup. In 2027, he will get one final opportunity to chase the same achievement with India.
