Virat Kohli Sets Sights on 2027 ODI World Cup: The GOAT’s Next Big Goal

Virat Kohli, often hailed as the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) in modern cricket, has sent fans into a frenzy with his latest revelation: he’s not ready to hang up his boots just yet and has his eyes firmly set on the 2027 ODI World Cup. On April 1, 2025, the 36-year-old batting maestro dropped a bombshell during an event in Mumbai, hinting that he plans to continue his illustrious career for at least two more years to chase another World Cup title. This announcement comes amidst swirling retirement rumors following his monumental contributions to India’s recent successes, including the 2024 T20 World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy.

Kohli’s statement, “The next big step? I don’t know. Maybe try to win the next World Cup in 2027,” has reignited hope among fans who feared the end of an era after he stepped away from T20 Internationals last year. With a career already studded with accolades—such as the 2011 ODI World Cup, the 2013 and 2025 Champions Trophies, and the 2024 T20 World Cup—Kohli’s hunger for success remains insatiable. His determination to add the 2027 ODI World Cup, to be held in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, to his trophy cabinet underscores his relentless drive and passion for the game.

Virat Kohli’s cricketing journey is nothing short of legendary. Since his debut in 2008, he has redefined batting standards across formats, amassing over 13,000 runs in ODIs alone, with an astonishing average above 58. His record-breaking 765 runs in the 2023 ODI World Cup, where he was named Player of the Tournament despite India’s loss in the final, showcased his ability to dominate even at 35. That heartbreak in Ahmedabad against Australia only fueled his resolve to return stronger, a sentiment echoed in his recent comments.

Kohli’s adaptability has been key to his longevity. After stepping down as India’s captain in all formats by 2022, he focused on his batting, delivering consistent performances that silenced critics questioning his form. His pivotal role in the 2025 Champions Trophy triumph—where India went undefeated—further solidified his status as a big-match player. With Rohit Sharma leading the side to back-to-back ICC titles, Kohli has found a perfect foil, and their partnership could be the cornerstone of India’s 2027 campaign.

At 36, Kohli’s fitness remains a benchmark for athletes worldwide. Known for his disciplined lifestyle, rigorous training regimes, and dietary discipline, he has defied age-related decline that often plagues cricketers in their mid-30s. During the Mumbai event, Kohli emphasized staying in the present while hinting at his long-term goal, a testament to his mental clarity and focus. “Staying in the present is key, but yes, maybe the 2027 World Cup is something I’d like to aim for,” he said, drawing thunderous applause from the crowd.

Experts believe Kohli’s fitness could see him emulate the likes of Sachin Tendulkar, who played until 40, and Rahul Dravid, who maintained peak performance late in his career. Former cricketer Aakash Chopra recently noted, “If Kohli maintains this discipline, there’s no reason he can’t play the 2027 World Cup. It’s about fitness and hunger, and he has both in abundance.” With over two years until the tournament, Kohli’s preparation will likely intensify, especially as India gears up for a packed ODI schedule of 27 matches before the event.

India’s loss in the 2023 ODI World Cup final left a scar, but their resurgence in 2024 and 2025 has set the stage for a redemption arc. Kohli, alongside captain Rohit Sharma, has been instrumental in this turnaround. While Rohit, who will be 40 by 2027, has kept his options open, Kohli’s clarity about his intentions provides stability to a team in transition. Young stars like Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer—who reclaimed his spot with a Grade A BCCI contract after topping the run charts in the 2025 Champions Trophy—are expected to complement the veterans.

The 2027 World Cup, hosted across three African nations, will test India’s adaptability to diverse conditions. Kohli’s experience in South Africa, where he has scored heavily in the past, could prove invaluable. With the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) retaining both Kohli and Rohit in their A+ contracts, the message is clear: the duo remains central to India’s white-ball plans. The upcoming ODI series against Afghanistan, England, West Indies, and New Zealand in 2026, followed by a tour of Sri Lanka in 2027, will be crucial for fine-tuning the squad.

For Kohli’s legion of fans, this news is a dream come true. Social media erupted with excitement, with posts on X reflecting the sentiment: “Kohli isn’t retiring, he will play till 2027 World Cup” and “Yes, smile b’coz Virat Kohli will play till 2027 World Cup.” The prospect of seeing the ‘King’ lift another World Cup trophy has reignited debates about his legacy. Already a cricketing icon, a 2027 triumph could cement his status as India’s greatest-ever batsman, surpassing even Tendulkar in some eyes.

However, challenges remain. Kohli’s recent tour of Australia in 2025 yielded a modest 190 runs in nine innings, raising questions about his consistency abroad. Critics argue that at 38, he may struggle against younger, faster bowlers. Yet, his track record in high-stakes tournaments suggests he thrives under pressure, a trait that could define India’s 2027 campaign. As he prepares for what might be his final World Cup, Kohli’s focus will be on silencing doubters once more.

Kohli’s decision also reflects a broader trend in cricket, where players are extending their careers through fitness and innovation. His commitment could inspire teammates like Ravindra Jadeja and emerging talents to push their limits. For Team India, the 2027 World Cup represents a chance to end a 16-year drought in the 50-over format, a title they last won in 2011 under MS Dhoni. With Kohli and Rohit potentially in their swansong, the emotional stakes couldn’t be higher.

As April 1, 2025, marks a new chapter in Kohli’s journey, the cricketing world watches with bated breath. Will the GOAT deliver one final masterpiece? Only time will tell, but for now, Virat Kohli’s chase for the 2027 ODI World Cup has begun—and it’s a story worth following.