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Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma may have retired from T20 and Test cricket, but neither of them is ready to say goodbye to international cricket at this time. The modern batting greats have their eyes set on the ICC World Cup 2027 and want to be a part of India’s squad for the mega event.
Both Rohit and Kohli are now only active in ODI cricket, and are determined to continue as long as they can contribute to the team. Kohli is still hungry for success, while Rohit is keen to end his career with the ODI World Cup trophy which he is yet to win.
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma must earn 2027 ODI World Cup selection!
However, the selection of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma for the ICC World Cup 2026 has not been decided. The BCCI and the Indian cricket team management are expected to take decisions based on fitness, form and team requirements.
It has already been indicated that fitness will be closely monitored, especially as the physical demands of 50-over cricket become increasingly challenging.
There is also a possibility that both the senior stars may have to play domestic cricket, including the Vijay Hazare Trophy, to remain match-ready and in contention for future selection decisions, as they only play ODI cricket.
While Kohli and Rohit are among India’s biggest cricket icons, the road to the 2027 ODI World Cup will depend on their performances, fitness levels and ability to continue performing at the highest level. And if things don’t go accordingly, young players like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ishan Kishan and Ruturaj Gaikwad are being groomed as backup options.
It is almost certain that Virat Kohli will play for ICC World Cup 2027, Rohit Sharma had to face the challenge!
Meanwhile, Rahul Rawat, a sports journalist, has revealed on Sports Tak that Virat Kohli is “almost certain” to be a part of India’s squad for the upcoming ODI World Cup 2026, if the former captain maintains his current form and fitness levels.
The BCCI and the team management are keen to fly Kohli to South Africa for the prestigious event, and they have not even put the flamboyant right-hander on trial for the World Cup. Even BCCI has recently given the green signal to Virat Kohli before the England series.
But things are different for Rohit Sharma. The former Indian captain is “still undergoing testing” and his place in the 2027 World Cup plans is not yet guaranteed. The coming months could be crucial as the selectors will keep a close eye on his fitness, performances and ability to handle the demands of 50-over cricket.
Mohammad Kaif makes bold prediction on Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma’s World Cup dreams
Meanwhile, former Indian batsman and commentator Mohammad Kaif believes that Kohli and Rohit can still play the 2027 ODI World Cup. He believes that Rohit is working hard on fitness and is highly motivated to play in the mega event.
Kaif said on his YouTube channel, “I will vouch for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Rohit is working on his fitness, he will push himself and somehow be able to play. Injuries happen to everyone, even the youngsters. He has that passion; the temperament shows in his batting. His batting as a captain and as a player is very different. The approach has changed. He is not pouncing on every ball.”
