Kohli declares retirement from international cricket after 2027 World Cup
Published On 26 Sep 2026
Virat Kohli stated that the 2027 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup will constitute his final international outing for India, and he is fully prepared to contribute everything needed to secure the trophy.
Among the premier century-makers in One‑Day Internationals, Kohli, who boasts 54 centuries, has retired from both T20 internationals and test cricket, and now represents India exclusively in the 50‑over format.
The 37‑year‑old batter, who has amassed 14,941 runs in one‑day internationals—the second‑highest tally behind Sachin Tendulkar—won the 2011 World Cup on home soil but was beaten in the 2023 final against Australia.
The 2027 edition, to be jointly hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia in October‑November, will mark Kohli’s fifth ODI World Cup appearance.
“For me, it’s the last World Cup I’ll ever play for India,” Kohli told broadcaster JioStar on Saturday.
“That is my motivation and, naturally, I’m determined to leave everything out there. My primary aim is to lift the World Cup trophy at any cost,” he added.
Kohli highlighted how the intense schedule of a 50‑over World **Cup** makes it one of cricket’s most demanding tours, especially given the overseas venue.
“The intensity of a 50‑over World Cup surpasses anything else. We are effectively playing ten Twenty‑20‑level games in a single tournament, which requires extraordinary stamina,” he explained.
“In addition, there are roughly two Twenty‑20 games compressed into one day. Maintaining such high intensity over ten titles‑long matches—and doing so abroad—places a heavy toll on players,” he continued.
Former captain Rohit Sharma confirmed his motivation remains strong despite no further commitments.
“There is no end to the excitement as long as anyone is competing. I’m eager to represent India again in this tournament,” Sharma said.
Kohli and Sharma were both included in India’s squad for a trio of ODI matches against the West Indies, with the opener slated for Thiruvananthapuram on Sunday.
