Cricket

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli Set Sights on 2027 World Cup Final Bow

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Sep 26, 2026, 20:14 IST

Indian cricket icons Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have committed to the ODI format, targeting the 2027 World Cup as their final international tournament as they prepare to face the West Indies in Thiruvananthapuram.

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli Set Sights on 2027 World Cup Final Bow

Indian cricket stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are continuing their international careers with a singular focus: the 2027 50-over World Cup. Despite their advancing years, with both players approaching their late thirties, the duo remains committed to the ODI format, viewing the upcoming tournament in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia as the definitive conclusion to their storied careers.

The pair’s journey toward the 2027 showpiece continues this Sunday at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram, where India is set to take on the West Indies. Having already moved on from Test and T20I cricket, both veterans are dedicating their remaining energy to the 50-over game, with India scheduled to play at least 25 ODIs leading up to the World Cup.

A Final Push for Global Glory

Virat Kohli, who holds the record for the most ODI centuries with 54, has publicly confirmed his intentions regarding the future. In a recent interview with JioStar, the veteran batter stated that the 2027 event will be his final World Cup for India. He expressed a clear determination to secure the title, noting that he is prepared to do whatever is necessary to achieve that goal.

Rohit Sharma, meanwhile, recently dispelled any immediate retirement speculation with a commanding 138-run performance against England at Lord’s two months ago. Their continued presence in the squad is viewed as a significant asset by the team management, particularly regarding the development of younger players.

Mentorship and Team Dynamics

India’s bowling coach, Morne Morkel, highlighted the value of having such experienced figures within the dressing room. Morkel noted that the team is fortunate to have the duo available to provide guidance to younger talents like Shubman Gill, Naman Dhir, and Aquib Nabi. According to Morkel, the presence of Rohit and Kohli in team discussions brings a wealth of knowledge that is highly beneficial for the squad’s overall development.

As the team prepares for the upcoming clash against the West Indies, the focus remains on the synergy between the two icons. With their careers now narrowed to the ODI format, every match leading up to the 2027 World Cup serves as a critical chapter in the final phase of their international journey.