Kohli’s ODI future in the spotlight
Amidst the uproar over his ODI future, Virat Kohli unexpectedly revealed his ambitions with a cryptic yet confident social media post. Ahead of India’s ODI series against Australia, the star batsman had gone to X for a motivational touch, where he vowed to continue playing. Sources close to Platoon confirmed that Kohli’s focus is on the 2027 ODI World Cup.
After recent talk of his withdrawal due to age and hectic schedule, Kohli’s post is a sign of his determination. The 36-year-old, who recently said goodbye to Tests and T20Is, is expected to lead India’s featherweight line-up again against Australia. Inside sources say his determination has only grown since leading India to the 2025 title-winning Ratna final.
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar has put the ambitions of both Kohli and Rohit Sharma to rest in India’s long-term ODI plans. He clarified that both have cleared all fitness tests and are part of the 2027 World Cup roadmap, at this stage there is “no question” of either of them retiring.
Gambhir urges focus on present, praises Kohli’s experience
Head coach Gautam Gambhir has encouraged the players to focus on immediate challenges and avoid future difficulties. After India’s series win against the West Indies, he cited Kohli’s experience as important for Australia. “The World Cup is still a long way off. Their experience and form will be crucial for Australia’s success,” reflected Gambhir.
Dinesh Karthik reveals Kohli’s London training routine
Royal Contenders Bangalore coach Dinesh Karthik has revealed that Kohli has been maintaining a rigorous training schedule during his time off in London. “He is still fit for competition. In fact, during his break, he has been training multiple times a week,” a testament to Kohli’s constant sweat-drenched efforts in preparation for the 2027 World Cup.
Kohli remains India’s leading ODI batsman with 14,181 runs in 302 matches at an average of 57.88, including 51 centuries. In 2025, he has primarily scored a century and two half-centuries, showing that he is still at the forefront of the game in the slower game. His consistency and match-winning intelligence have made him indispensable to India’s campaign.
Kohli’s emotional record in Australia
Australian conditions have long highlighted Virat Kohli’s excellent runs. In 29 ODIs there, he has scored 1,327 runs at a natural rate of over 51, including five centuries. As India prepare for another violent clash against Australia, all eyes will be on Kohli – whose form has defined India’s success in this format.
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