Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s chances of featuring in the 2027 Cricket World Cup seem unlikely, as after stepping away from T20Is and Test cricket over the past year, the iconic pair may also retire from ODIs and draw the curtain on their international careers. As per a Dainik Jagran report, the veteran duo are not in India’s plans for the 2027 World Cup, with younger players ready to step in.
It states that the senior pros do not align with the team management’s vision for the mega tournament. The report further notes that Rohit could be allowed to captain in his final series in Australia, with both him and Virat possibly exiting the sport together. The information indicates that the Australia tour might be their last series, with retirements possibly announced beforehand.
Additionally, it is reported that if they wish to remain in ODIs after Australia, they must compete in the Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT), India’s annual 50-over domestic tournament involving state teams. Rohit Sharma would play for Mumbai, while Virat Kohli would represent Delhi if they choose to participate.
2025–26 Season Final To Clash With India’s ODI Series Against New Zealand
The 2025–26 season is slated to begin on December 25, with the final group stage match set for January 8. During this period, the Indian team has no international fixtures. The knockout stage will start on January 12, and the final is scheduled for January 18—directly overlapping with India’s three-match ODI series against New Zealand, which runs from January 11 to 18.
Regarding the Australia tour—highlighted in reports as a possible farewell series for Rohit and Virat—the Men in Blue will play three ODIs on October 19, 23, and 25 in Perth, Adelaide, and Sydney. The pair last represented India in the 2025 Champions Trophy, where their performances were instrumental in securing the title.
Widely regarded as two of the finest ODI batters in cricket history, Virat has amassed 14,181 runs from 302 matches at an average of 57.88, including a record 51 centuries. Rohit, with 273 appearances, has scored 11,168 runs at an average of 48.76, registering 32 centuries. Notably, he remains the only player to score multiple double centuries in ODIs—achieving the feat three times.
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