As the Indian Test team, currently going through a transition, continues to receive praise for their recent performance in England, the BCCI has reportedly begun planning for the next ODI World Cup cycle. This planning could play an important role in deciding the future of two senior players — Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
Both Rohit and Kohli have already retired from Test and T20I cricket. It is widely believed that they will continue playing ODIs, with the 2027 World Cup as their likely target. However, their increasing age, current level of motivation, and lack of regular match practice will be important factors in deciding whether the team management wants them to remain in the ODI squad.
According to a report by PTI, with almost two years left before the next ODI World Cup in Africa, the BCCI is planning to give more opportunities to young players. The aim is to build a strong team that can win the tournament, something India last achieved in 2011. Rohit Sharma is now 38 years old, and Virat Kohli is 36.
They are expected to return to the field during a three-match ODI series in Australia this October, followed by a home series against South Africa in November and December. In 2026, they are scheduled to play only six ODIs between January and July. Whether this limited number of matches will be enough to keep them fully fit and motivated for the World Cup remains uncertain.
“Yes, it will be discussed soon. We still have more than two years for the next World Cup (November 2027). Both Kohli and Rohit will be pushing 40 by then, so, there has to be a clear plan ahead for the big event as our last win was in 2011. We also need to try out a few youngsters in time,” PTI quoted a source as saying.
No Plans To Drop Rohit And Kohli From ODIs
However, there is no intention to drop the two players out of one-day cricket. They ended their T20I careers on a high note after India won the World Cup last year. In contrast, their retirement from Test cricket was quiet, announced through social media posts.
“Look, both Kohli and Rohit have made huge contributions to white ball cricket for the team and the sport in general. They have achieved almost everything. So, I don’t think nobody’s going to force their hand, but there will be some honest and professional conversations before the next ODI cycle starts to see where they stand mentally and physically. It depends on that,” the source said.
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