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Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma may have retired from T20Is and Test cricket, but neither of them is ready to say goodbye to international cricket at this stage. The modern batting legends have set their eyes on the ICC World Cup 2027 and want to be part of India's squad for the mega event.
Both Rohit and Kohli are now only active in ODI cricket, and they remain determined to continue as long as they can contribute to the team. Kohli is still hungry for success, while Rohit is eager to finish his career with the ODI World Cup trophy, which he has not yet won.
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma must earn a 2027 ODI World Cup selection!
However, Virat Kohli's and Rohit Sharma’s selection for the ICC World Cup 2026 is not guaranteed. The BCCI and Indian cricket team management are expected to make decisions based on fitness, form, and team requirements.
It has already been hinted that fitness will be monitored closely, especially with the physical demands of 50-over cricket becoming increasingly challenging.
There is also a possibility that both senior stars may have to play domestic cricket, including the Vijay Hazare Trophy, to stay match-ready and in contention for the future selection decisions, because they only play ODI cricket.
While Kohli and Rohit remain among India's biggest cricketing icons, the road to the 2027 ODI World Cup will depend on their performances, fitness levels, and ability to keep delivering at the highest level. And if things didn’t go accordingly, young players like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ishan Kishan, and Ruturaj Gaikwad are being prepared as the backup options.
Virat Kohli almost confirmed for ICC World Cup 2027, Rohit Sharma faces trials
Amid this, a sports journalist, Rahul Rawat, has revealed on Sports Tak that Virat Kohli is “almost certain” to be part of India's squad for the upcoming ODI World Cup 2026 if the former captain maintains his current form and fitness levels.
The BCCI and the team management are keen on having Kohli on the flight to South Africa for the prestigious event, and even they have not put the dashing right-hander on trial for the World Cup. Even, BCCI has recently given green signal to Virat Kohli ahead of England series.
But things are different for Rohit Sharma. The former Indian captain is “still under trial," and his place in the 2027 World Cup plans is not yet guaranteed. The coming months could be crucial as selectors closely monitor his fitness, performances, and ability to handle the demands of 50-over cricket.
Mohammad Kaif makes bold prediction on Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma's World Cup dream
Meanwhile, former Indian batter and commentator Mohammad Kaif believes that Kohli and Rohit can still play the 2027 ODI World Cup. He feels Rohit is working hard on fitness and remains highly motivated to play in the mega event.
Kaif said on his YouTube channel, "I will take the guarantee of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Rohit is working on his fitness; he will push himself and somehow manage to play. Injury happens to everyone, even to youngsters. He has that passion; the temperament is seen in his batting. His batting as a captain and as a player is very different. The approach has changed. He is not pouncing on every ball.”
