BCCI Denies Imminent ODI Retirement For Virat Kohli & Rohit Sharma Amid 2027 World Cup Rumours

The future of India's veteran batting duo, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, in One-Day Internationals remains uncertain, with growing chatter about their potential retirement before the 2027 ODI World Cup. Both players have already stepped away from T20Is and Test cricket over the past year, fueling speculation that their ODI exits might not be far off.

A report by Dainik Jagran suggested that Kohli and Rohit could retire from the format after India's ODI tour of Australia in October 2025, which includes three matches in Perth, Adelaide, and Sydney. The report also claimed that while the duo wanted to feature in the upcoming England series, selectors allegedly informed them they were not in the plans for 2027. As a result, retirement discussions reportedly began.

However, news agency PTI quoted BCCI sources dismissing any immediate retirement agenda, clarifying that the board's current focus is on the upcoming Asia Cup T20 and the 2026 T20 World Cup.

"Obviously, if they (Rohit and Kohli) have something in mind, they would tell the BCCI brass like they did before the England Test tour. But for now, the priority is sending the best possible squad for the Asia Cup and ensuring everyone is fit," a BCCI official said on condition of anonymity.

The source also added that the BCCI is unlikely to make hasty decisions, given the sensitive nature of the matter and the immense fan following of the two legends.

Following the Australia tour in October, India is set to host South Africa for three ODIs in December. The 2026 schedule includes series against New Zealand, Afghanistan, England, West Indies, and another contest against New Zealand.