ICC World Cup 2027: Huge Update on Rohit Sharma & Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma retired from T20Is together after India won the ICC T20 World Cup in 2024. Many fans believed this move would help them focus on their Test and ODI careers. But things have changed quickly in Indian cricket. Just a few months later, both Rohit and Kohli announced their retirement from Test cricket.

The two decisions came within five days of each other. This led many to believe that the duo had their eyes set on the ODI World Cup 2027, to be held in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. But the journey to the 2027 World Cup is not going to be easy since Indian cricket is going through a big transition. Young players are getting more chances and grabbing them with both hands. This change was seen in the Test team, and a similar shift may happen in the ODI setup too.

Virat Kohli Rohit Sharma to Play World Cup 2027?

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are no longer regulars in every match but both of them are the best batsmen in the world. They are playing only selected series and this could make it harder for them to find their best form in the ODI format. The ODI World Cup 2023 in India is seen as a golden chance for both players. Kohli was in brilliant form throughout the tournament while Rohit led the team well as captain.

However, India lost to Australia in the final. The defeat was heartbreaking for the entire team, especially for two senior players who gave their all.
Both still dream of winning another World Cup. Rohit is working hard to stay fit and be ready for 2027 and Virat, too, has made his goal clear. He said during an RCB event earlier this year that the World Cup 2028 is now his top target.

However, staying in the mix for that long is a challenge. Rohit will turn 40 in 2027, and Kohli is also close behind. Fitness, form, and selection will play key roles in deciding whether they make it to the next World Cup squad.

BCCI To Hold Conversations with Virat Kohli & Rohit Sharma

India is scheduled to play only 27 ODIs until the end of 2026. These matches are spread across multiple series and months. This limited game time could make it hard for players to find rhythm, especially if they are not part of the other formats. According to the reports, the BCCI will hold discussions with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma about their future.

Since both the legends are nearing 40 years of age, the board is looking to give chances to the youngsters in the future. The next time both Kohli and Rohit are expected to be seen in India’s playing XI is in October 2025 when India travels to Australia for three ODIs and five T20Is. After that, India will host South Africa for three ODIs in November. They will also face New Zealand for three more ODIs at the end of the year.

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli 2027 World Cup chances will depend on their fitness, form, and mindset. A final decision will be made after honest discussions with the BCCI. Kohli and Rohit have given a lot to Indian cricket and both are the greatest of all time in this format. However, both are yet to win an ICC ODI World Cup together. A win in the ODI World Cup 2027 would be a fitting farewell for both of them.