Virat Kohli has addressed talk about the 2027 World Cup, saying he still loves the game and wants to play for India for as long as he can contribute in a meaningful way.
Wanting to play
Kohli, who is turning out for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2026, said on the RCB podcast that it is still only mid-2026 and that he has been asked many times whether he wants to play in 2027. He said he would not have left home and brought his belongings with him if he did not want to play. If he is playing, he added, it will be for India, and he wants to be part of a World Cup.
The condition
His position is that if he can add value to the environment, and the environment agrees, he will be selected. He made clear, though, that if he were made to feel he must constantly prove his worth, he would not be in that space, because he is honest about his preparation and approach.
Form and mindset
Kohli has retired from Tests and T20Is and now plays only ODIs and the IPL. He recently scored three centuries and three fifties in just seven ODIs, which shows his consistency in the 50-over format.
He also reiterated his team-first mindset, saying he prepares to face 50 overs as if every ball could be the last of his career, and gives his absolute best whenever he turns up. If he still had to prove himself after that, he said, such a place would not be meant for him, and he is very clear about that in his own head.
