Speculation is mounting that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) may be pushing for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to retire from One Day Internationals (ODIs) immediately after the upcoming series against Australia, foregoing any plans to participate in the 2027 World Cup. This comes amidst a perceived transition phase in Indian cricket, with a focus on giving younger players more opportunities.
Both Kohli, 36, and Sharma, 38, have already retired from T20Is and Test cricket. Kohli bid farewell to T20Is after the 2024 T20 World Cup. He later retired from Test cricket on May 12, 2025. Sharma also retired from T20Is after the 2024 T20 World Cup and from Test cricket before the series against England.
The BCCI is reportedly planning to hold discussions with Kohli and Sharma to understand their plans for the future. A key point of discussion will be their fitness and motivation to continue playing ODIs, considering the 2027 World Cup is still over two years away. By that time, both players will be nearing 40.
While the BCCI acknowledges the immense contributions of Kohli and Sharma to Indian cricket, they are also keen on building a team for the future. The emergence of players like Shubman Gill, Ishan Kishan and Ruturaj Gaikwad has bolstered the argument for promoting youth in the ODI setup.
Recent reports suggest that if Kohli and Sharma wish to extend their ODI careers, they might be required to participate in domestic tournaments like the Vijay Hazare Trophy to prove their form and fitness. This condition could potentially lead them to consider retiring from ODIs after the Australia series.
Kohli's recent social media activity has further fueled speculation about his future. A photo of him sporting a grey beard sparked intense discussions among fans, with some interpreting it as a sign that he is contemplating retirement from ODIs. However, Kohli has also shared images of himself practicing, suggesting he is preparing for upcoming international fixtures.
Despite the rumors, BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla has clarified that the board respects the decisions of Kohli and Sharma and has not pressured them to retire. He stated that the duo remains available for ODIs. Sharma also dismissed ODI retirement rumors after India's Champions Trophy 2025 win.
Gautam Gambhir, India's head coach, has emphasized that selection will depend on performance, regardless of age. He noted that the focus after the series against England will be on the 2026 T20 World Cup, with the 2027 ODI World Cup still a long way off.
India is scheduled to play a limited number of ODIs between now and the 2027 World Cup. This limited schedule could make it challenging for Kohli and Sharma to maintain their form and rhythm at the international level. The upcoming ODI series against Australia in October 2025 is expected to be their next appearance in Indian colors.
