Virat Kohli, the modern-day batting legend of India, has confirmed that he plans to continue playing till the 2027 ODI World Cup, ending rumours that he will retire. Even though Kohli declared his retirement from Twenty20 Internationals following India’s victory in the 2024 T20 World Cup, he remains a vital player in both Test and One-Day International cricket.
The seasoned batter, who won the 2024 T20 World Cup and 2025 Champions Trophy as a senior member and the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy as a young player, has talked candidly about his next big goal.
He said, “I don’t know, maybe try to win the next World Cup in 2027,” in response to a query about his next major objective when speaking at a recent event.
Any hints about the next big step ?
Virat – I don’t know, May be try to win the next World Cup 2027 🔥 pic.twitter.com/S7pwQN9iXw
— Sohel. (@SohelVkf) April 1, 2025
The 36-year-old has become one of the world’s fittest cricket players by prioritising fitness over the last ten years. There were worries about his longevity as he grew older, but he has allayed all suspicions.
“A week off is excellent at age 36. I have to be really strong to work that hard. I’m feeling rather content right now in my life. Even now, I still enjoy playing the game. Avoid being anxious. I have nothing to announce. Everything is good right now,” Virat Kohli stated recently at the RCB Innovation Lab Indian Sports Summit.
He only managed to score 190 runs in five Test matches, including a tonne in Perth, during the most recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which was a lacklustre showing. The former Indian captain acknowledged that he had difficulties, but he also talked about how he overcame them.
“For me, it simply comes down to accepting that everything is fine. This is what took place. I will be truthful with myself. Where would you like me to go? How much energy do I have? I’m not going to sit here and decide in 48 or 72 hours. Spend time with your family and let me go. Give things time to settle down and check in with me in a few days. Five days later, I couldn’t wait to visit the gym. “Okay, fine,” I said. Everything is OK,” he continued.
When the 2027 World Cup comes around, Virat Kohli will be 38 years old.
But given his level of fitness and drive for achievement, he will be part of India’s ambitions. Under new head coach Gautam Gambhir, the Indian squad has not ruled out Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli playing in the event. Although Rohit, who will be 39, would find it more difficult to maintain his form, Virat Kohli workload after retiring from T20I could enable him effectively prolong his career.
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