Virat Kohli still wants that ODI World Cup

Virat Kohli is not done yet. He may have stepped away from Test cricket, and he might not play every format regularly anymore, but his passion for the game—and for one more big trophy—is clear as ever.

Even though he lifted the ICC T20 World Cup in 2024, there’s still one goal left: the 50-over World Cup. Kohli has already played in multiple editions, starting from his debut win in 2011. But like many Indian fans, he’s still chasing that second title in the format.

And now, there’s a growing call to give Kohli the farewell he truly deserves—by helping him lift the ODI World Cup in 2027, just like MS Dhoni’s team did for Sachin Tendulkar in 2011.

IPL Chairman’s strong message to Team India

IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal recently spoke about this during an interview with journalist Vimal Kumar on YouTube. Dhumal said Kohli’s contributions to Indian and world cricket make him a player worth celebrating on the biggest stage one final time.

“Just like the team did it for Sachin in 2011, this team should do it for Virat in 2027,” said Dhumal.

Back in 2011, a young Kohli had lifted Tendulkar on his shoulders after the final in Mumbai and famously said, “He’s carried the burden of the nation for 21 years, now it’s our turn to carry him.”

Fans now want to see history repeat—with Kohli in the same spot Tendulkar was, 16 years earlier.

Rohit Sharma also in the spotlight

Kohli’s longtime teammate, Rohit Sharma, is in a similar situation. Rohit has been a key player in white-ball cricket and also stepped up as a leader when India needed him the most.

While Rohit faced some ups and downs early in his Test career, his rise as a captain and opening batter gave the team new strength. Even in his mid-30s, he’s shown no signs of slowing down.

“Rohit has reinvented his game. He’s playing outstanding cricket. As long as they’re fit and performing, we should support them,” Dhumal added.

What to expect by 2027?

If Kohli and Rohit remain fit and continue to perform like they did in recent series—including Kohli’s 300+ run spree against South Africa in late 2024—they’re likely to be in the mix for the 2027 World Cup squad.

By 2027, Kohli will be close to 40. But age is just a number for players of this caliber. With the right support and form, another World Cup run is not out of the question.

Meanwhile, India’s younger talent pool is also growing fast. Players like Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Ruturaj Gaikwad are stepping up, which could make 2027 a balanced blend of experience and youth.

What the fans think

Online support for “one last World Cup for Kohli” has grown stronger since the T20 World Cup win. Social media trends, fan posts, and former players have all echoed the same wish—give Kohli the perfect ending.

Cricket is full of emotion, and if the past is any clue, team spirit can create magical moments. Just like 2011.