NEW DELHI: Indian batting star Virat Kohli has confirmed that the 2027 ODI World Cup will be his final appearance at the global 50-over tournament, as he targets another World Cup triumph with India.
The 37-year-old made the announcement on Saturday ahead of India’s three-match ODI series against the West Indies, which begins on Sunday.
Speaking to broadcaster JioStar, Kohli said the World Cup, scheduled to be hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia, would be his last representing India.
“For me, it’s the last World Cup I’m going to play for India,” Kohli said, adding that his focus was on giving his best and helping the team win the title.
Kohli said he was fully prepared for the challenge and determined to contribute to India’s campaign.
The upcoming West Indies series is regarded as part of India’s preparations for the 2027 World Cup.
Kohli remains among the leading run-scorers in ODI cricket, with 54 centuries and 14,941 runs to his name. He was also a member of India’s 2011 World Cup-winning squad led by Mahendra Singh Dhoni.
Comparing the demands of the 50-over World Cup with T20 cricket, Kohli said maintaining intensity across a lengthy tournament required considerable physical and mental effort, particularly when playing in overseas conditions.
Kohli and fellow India great Rohit Sharma, 39, retired from T20 internationals following India’s 2024 World Cup victory. India had earlier suffered defeat to Australia in the 2023 ODI World Cup final on home soil.
India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak said the experience of Kohli and Rohit had added value to the team as preparations for the next World Cup gather pace.
Kotak said the squad had a positive environment and that players were conscious of having only a year remaining before the 2027 showpiece.
