Virat Kohli Confirms 2027 ODI World Cup Ambitions: “My Preparations Are In Full Sync”

Speaking during a recent appearance on the RCB Podcast, the legendary batsman Virat Kohli opened up about his rigorous preparation routine, his shift in perspective toward the game, and his unwavering desire to continue playing the one-day international (ODI) format. Despite stepping away from T20Is in 2024 and Test cricket in 2025, Kohli remains the absolute anchor of India’s 50-over lineup.

Aiming for the 2027 World Cup

As cricket fans look ahead to the 2027 tournament, many have wondered if the veteran batsman would still be part of the blueprint. Kohli addressed those questions head-on, emphasizing that his current workload management and training are specifically geared toward the mega-event.

“We’re in mid-2026. I have been asked many times, ‘Do you want to play in 2027?’ Why would I leave home, get my stuff over and be like ‘I don’t know what I want’. Of course, if I’m playing, I want to play cricket, I want to carry on. Playing a World Cup for India is amazing.”

To maintain his rhythm between international assignments, Kohli has not only been active in the Indian Premier League (IPL) but also recently turned up for his state side, Delhi, in the Vijay Hazare Trophy—India’s premier domestic List-A tournament.

Master of the One-Day Format

Kohli’s dedication to his fitness and preparation explains how he continues to dominate a format he has practically mastered over the last decade and a half.

• The Ultimate Work Ethic: “I work as hard, if not harder, than anyone else,” Kohli stated. “You want me to run from boundary to boundary for 40 overs in an ODI game, I will do that without a complaint. Because I prepare accordingly.”
• The Baseline Numbers: Kohli currently boasts an astonishing ODI average of 58.71 with a strike rate of 93.82. He holds the record for the most centuries in ODI history (54) and sits as the second-highest run-scorer of all time in the format with 14,797 runs, trailing only Sachin Tendulkar.

Moving Beyond the Numbers

Having achieved almost every milestone imaginable—including breaking Tendulkar’s record by smashing his 50th ODI century against New Zealand at the 2023 World Cup, and hitting his 82nd international ton at the 2025 Champions Trophy—Kohli revealed his motivation has undergone a massive evolution.

He explained that while statistical goals and records are great motivators early in a career, they eventually stop providing organic fulfillment.

Pure Enjoyment of Cricket (Start of Career)
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Setting & Achieving Goals (Mid-Career)
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Re-discovering Pure Joy & Flow (Current Stage)

“I’m at this stage in my life and career where I’m just doing things, even playing cricket, it gets to a stage which goes beyond numbers and achievements,” Kohli reflected. “It’s like a full circle feeling when you start off with just pure enjoyment of the game… The more you achieve, the more you realize that numbers are actually not what your purpose is in the game.”

What’s Next for Team India?

With Kohli fully committed to the 50-over format, India has a packed ODI calendar lined up for the upcoming months. Fans won’t have to wait long to see him back in the blue jersey.

Upcoming India ODI Schedule (2026)