The next ODI World Cup is scheduled to take place in South Africa in 2027. Ahead of this major event, the Indian cricket team is slated to play 24 confirmed ODI matches. Many Indian cricket fans have long hoped to see Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma continue wearing the ODI jersey, especially after they retire from T20I and Test formats. Both players have expressed their strong desire to win the ODI World Cup before ending their international careers. However, recent developments suggest that the BCCI may be hesitant about including these two veterans in the 2027 World Cup squad.
In the past few days, reports have circulated on social media indicating that the BCCI will soon hold discussions with Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. The purpose of these talks is to clarify whether they will continue in the ODI format. A similar process occurred a few months ago regarding their Test careers, after which both players announced their retirements from Test cricket. Now, a similar situation appears to be unfolding regarding their ODI futures.
Both Kohli and Rohit have made monumental contributions to India’s white-ball cricket, achieving nearly everything possible in the format. Before the upcoming cricket series of the ODI format begins, the forthcoming talks between the BCCI and the two stars will provide insights into their physical and mental readiness. The future of both players in the ODI setup largely depends on the outcomes of these discussions.
Despite their declarations of wanting to play until the next World Cup, reports suggest that the path to the 2027 World Cup for Kohli and Rohit may be challenging. Just as the Indian team has implemented rapid changes in the Test squad, similar restructuring is expected in the ODI format. The selectors seem keen on providing ample opportunities to younger players, signalling a shift toward a fresh core team. This potential transition may come as a shock to the loyal fans of both Rohit and Kohli.
A recent report by Cricbuzz noted that Rohit Sharma is working hard to regain full fitness in preparation for the World Cup. Meanwhile, Kohli reaffirmed at an RCB event before IPL 2025 that his next big goal is to win the World Cup.
India’s Confirmed ODI Schedule Leading up to the 2027 World Cup
- 3 ODIs vs Australia in Australia — 19–25 October 2025
- 3 ODIs vs South Africa in India — 30 November to 6 December 2025
- 3 ODIs vs New Zealand in India — January 2026
- 3 ODIs vs Afghanistan in India — June 2026
- 3 ODIs vs England in India — July 2026
- 3 ODIs vs West Indies in West Indies — October to November 2026
- 3 ODIs vs New Zealand in India — November 2026
- 3 ODIs vs Sri Lanka in Sri Lanka — December 2026
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