Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma Will Play ODI World Cup 2027 Or Not? BCCI To Talk With Senior Cricketers

As India transitions into a new era of cricket, the spotlight is now firmly on two of its biggest icons - Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma - and their future in the One Day International (ODI) format. Following India's 2-2 draw in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy against England, the rise of young stars like Mohammed Siraj, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Washington Sundar signals a shift in the team's core - one that could leave limited room for aging legends.

The Age Factor and the 2027 World Cup

Both Kohli (36) and Rohit (38) have already retired from T20Is and are rarely seen in ODIs. Their next expected outings could be in an away series against Australia, followed by home matches against South Africa. Between January and July 2026, they may feature in six more ODIs against New Zealand and England. But questions are now being raised - is this enough to prepare them for the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa?

A BCCI source confirmed that discussions about their future are expected soon. "There is still time, but both players will be close to 40 when the 2027 World Cup arrives. We need to have honest, professional conversations with them about where they stand - physically, mentally, and in terms of their long-term contribution," the source said.

Lack of Game Time Raises Concerns

Since the Champions Trophy in March, both Kohli and Rohit have stayed away from competitive cricket. This inactivity could hurt their rhythm heading into a new ODI cycle. While the BCCI mandates that fit players must play domestic cricket, legends like them often receive exemptions. Still, missing the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy in late 2025 could further widen the gap between them and the younger, match-fit squad.

Do Kohli and Rohit Still Fit Into the ODI Core?

India has not lifted an ODI World Cup trophy since 2011 - an era both players have dominated. However, the emergence of fearless youngsters has sparked debate about whether it's time to hand over the reins fully.

While Kohli remains one of India's fittest and most technically sound batters, and Rohit's leadership is unmatched in the shorter formats, there's no denying that their roles need to be reassessed in a team that is quickly evolving.

India at a Crossroads

With over two years left for the 2027 World Cup, the Indian team has time on its side - but not forever. The board faces a tough decision: do they continue banking on two of Indian cricket's greatest icons, or is it time to build a new ODI core without them?

What's clear is that the coming months will be crucial. Whether Kohli and Rohit return to the ODI fold consistently or gradually make way for the next generation could define India's chances at global glory in 2027.