Virat Kohli has confirmed that the 2027 ODI World Cup will be his last for India. The former India captain made the announcement ahead of India’s ODI series against the West Indies.
At 37, Kohli sees the upcoming tournament as extra motivation. His goal is to help India win the World Cup before ending his World Cup career.
“For me, it’s the last World Cup I’m going to play for India. And that is my motivation.”
The veteran batter also said he plans to give everything to achieve that goal.
Kohli Targets One Final World Cup
Kohli explained why the ODI World Cup remains a major challenge. Unlike T20 cricket, a 50-over tournament demands sustained fitness and concentration.
Moreover, players must adapt to different pitches and conditions during an international tournament. Kohli has already experienced that challenge across four previous World Cups.
The 2027 edition will give him one final chance to win the ODI World Cup with India. He played in the 2011, 2015, 2019 and 2023 tournaments.
Kohli helped India win the 2011 World Cup on home soil. Since then, he has remained one of India’s most important batters in the format.
Meanwhile, the star batter has retired from both Test and T20I cricket. As a result, ODI cricket is now his only international format.
India Begin 2027 World Cup Preparations
India will begin their ODI series against the West Indies on September 27. The opening match will take place in Thiruvananthapuram.
Next, the second ODI will be played in Guwahati on September 30. The teams will then meet in New Chandigarh for the third match on October 3.
Kohli remains part of India’s squad for the series. Therefore, his performances will attract attention as the team prepares for the 2027 World Cup.
The tournament will take place across South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia. It is scheduled to run from October 4 to November 21.
Kohli also enters the final stage of his World Cup career with an impressive record. He has scored 1,795 runs in 37 World Cup matches. His tally includes five centuries and 12 fifties.
With his latest announcement, Kohli has made his plans clear. Now, attention will turn to his ODI performances and India’s preparations for the 2027 tournament.
