'Last World Cup I am going to play': Virat Kohli confirms 2027 ODI World Cup will be his last for India, vows to give everything
PTC News Desk: Virat Kohli has confirmed that the 2027 ICC Men's ODI World Cup will be his final 50-over World Cup for India. The tournament is scheduled to be held across 12 venues in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia in October-November 2027.
Kohli made his ODI World Cup debut in 2011 and was part of India's title-winning team under captain MS Dhoni. He has since played in four ODI World Cups — 2011, 2015, 2019 and 2023.
He added that next year’s tournament will be his last for India and his goal is to win the title. He also said he is absolutely ready to do whatever it takes to achieve that goal.
“The intensity of a 50-over World Cup is greater than anything. Because now, it’s about 10 games at a T20 level of intensity. But you are playing 2.5 T20 games in one day. And to maintain that intensity for 10 games in a big tournament and World Cup is a big deal. Also now, it’s in foreign conditions. It takes a lot out of you," Kohli said.
“For me, it’s the last World Cup I’m going to play for India. And that is my motivation. Like, you know, to leave everything out there. And of course, the goal is absolutely to win the World Cup. And whatever it takes, I’m absolutely ready," he added.
Kohli has scored 14,941 runs in 314 ODIs for India. Speaking to JioStar ahead of India's three-match ODI series against the West Indies, he said he is determined to give his best in preparation for the 2027 World Cup.
Former India captain Rohit Sharma is also hoping to play in the 2027 World Cup. Rohit said he is looking forward to the tournament and preparing for the challenges ahead.
He said that as long as a player continues to play, there is always something to look forward to. Rohit also highlighted the unique challenges of World Cups, including facing different teams and playing at different venues, which require players to prepare and think differently.
- PTC NEWS
