India batting star Virat Kohli is targeting a fifth World Cup appearance and hopes to end his international tournament career by lifting the trophy in 2027.
India batting great Virat Kohli has confirmed that the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup will be his final appearance at the global 50-over tournament. The veteran batter is determined to make his fifth World Cup campaign count by helping India secure another title.
Kohli revealed his plans ahead of India’s three-match ODI series against the West Indies, which is being viewed as an important part of the team’s preparations for the 2027 tournament.
He said the upcoming World Cup provides his main motivation and stressed that he is prepared to give everything required to help India win the trophy.
Kohli Chasing Another World Cup Triumph
The 37-year-old has already featured in four ODI World Cups and was part of India’s title-winning campaign in 2011 under former captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni.
Kohli has established himself as one of the most prolific batters in ODI history. He has accumulated 14,941 runs and a record 54 centuries in the format, putting him just short of the 15,000-run milestone.
After retiring from Test and T20I cricket, Kohli is now focused exclusively on the 50-over format and has made his intention clear to continue competing at the highest level until the 2027 World Cup.
50-Over Cricket Presents a Major Challenge
Kohli believes the demands of a World Cup in the ODI format are greater than those of T20 cricket. He highlighted the physical and mental challenge of maintaining high intensity across a lengthy tournament.
According to the former India captain, players must sustain that level of performance across multiple matches while also adapting to foreign conditions, making the competition particularly demanding.
India Builds Towards 2027
Kohli and Rohit Sharma retired from T20 internationals following India’s 2024 T20 World Cup triumph. Both experienced players remain important figures in India’s ODI setup.
India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak said their experience has contributed positively to the dressing room as the team begins its countdown toward the 2027 World Cup.
The tournament will be jointly hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia, giving Kohli an opportunity to conclude his World Cup career on another major international stage.