Virat Kohli has made it clear: he will only consider playing in the 2027 One-Day International World Cup if he believes he can still add value to the team.
Speaking on a podcast for his Indian Premier League franchise, Royal Challengers Bangalore, the 37-year-old former India captain said he has nothing left to prove after a storied career that includes retirement from T20Is after India's 2024 World Cup win and from Tests last year. He now plays only ODIs.
Last year, Kohli scored 651 runs in 13 ODIs. He has already hit three centuries in the current IPL season. Asked about the 2027 World Cup, set for South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia in October and November next year, Kohli said he would not pursue selection unless he is convinced he can contribute.
"If I can add value to the environment that I'm a part of, and the environment feels like I can add value, I'll be seen," he said, adding that he prepares as if every ball could be his last. "After operating like this, if I have to be in a place where I have to prove my worth and value, that place is not meant to be for me."
Kohli has played 311 ODIs, amassing 14,797 runs at an average of 58.71-second only to Sachin Tendulkar's 18,426 runs in the format. Despite recent scrutiny over consistency, including back-to-back ducks against Australia, he rebounded with strong performances against South Africa and New Zealand.