Kolkata : Virat Kohli has revealed that the 2027 ODI World Cup will be his last World Cup for India, and the thought of one final time to battle out the coveted trophy will be his biggest motivation.
Kohli, who now plays only ODI format said he is ready to give everything on the field as India begin their preparations for the 50-over showpiece in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia against West Indies starting from September 27.
Speaking to JioStar ahead of India’s ODI series against West Indies, Kohli briefed the intensity needed for a 50 over World Cup and how winning the title is his ultimate objective in the foreign land, and whatever it takes , he is ready to give everything for his penultimate campaign.
“The intensity of a 50-over World Cup is greater than anything. Because now, it’s about 10 games at a T20 level of intensity. But you are playing 2.5 T20 games in one day. And to maintain that intensity for 10 games in a big tournament and World Cup is a big deal,” Kohli said.
“Also now, it’s in foreign conditions. It takes a lot out of you. For me, it’s the last World Cup I’m going to play for India. And that is my motivation. Like, you know, to leave everything out there. And of course, the goal is absolutely to win the World Cup. And whatever it takes, I’m absolutely ready”.
Kohli will have another opportunity to chase the trophy after having played 4 World Cups till now.
The Chase master was part of India’s victorious 2011 World Cup campaign under captain MS Dhoni and also played in the 2023 final, where India lost to Australia in Ahmedabad and Kohli could be spotted crying despite the Player of The Tournament Award.
Across his World Cup career, he has scored 1,795 runs in 37 matches at an average of 59.83, including five centuries and 12 fifties. His overall ODI record stands at 14,941 runs in 302 innings at an average of 58.59, with 54 centuries and 79 fifties.
The 2027 World Cup will be jointly hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia from October 4 to November 21.
India’s ODI preparations begin with the three-match home series against West Indies from September 29, followed by further 50-over assignment as mark for preparation before ultimate battle.
