‘I Won’t Play Just To Prove Myself’: Virat Kohli Opens Up On 2027 World Cup Future
Indian cricket star Virat Kohli has made it clear that he will only continue playing ODI cricket if he genuinely feels valued within the team environment, saying he has no interest in constantly proving his worth to anyone.
Speaking during the RCB Podcast, the former India captain opened up about his future in the 50-over format and his possible participation in the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Kohli, who has already retired from Test and T20 internationals, remains active only in One-Day Internationals for India.
‘If I Can Add Value, I’ll Be There’
Responding to questions about the next World Cup, Kohli said his decision would depend entirely on whether the team management still believes he contributes meaningfully to the side.
“If I can add value to the environment I’m part of and the environment feels I can add value, I’ll be there,” Kohli said.
However, the batting legend stressed that he would walk away if he ever felt he was being forced to repeatedly justify his place in the team.
“If I’m put in a situation where I constantly have to prove my worth and value, then that space is not meant for me,” he added.
Kohli Says Commitment Has Never Changed
The 37-year-old said his commitment towards the game and the team remains as intense as ever.
Kohli explained that he continues to prepare and perform with full dedication, whether it involves batting, fielding or fitness.
“You want me to run from boundary to boundary for 40 overs in an ODI, I’ll do it without complaint,” he said.
He added that he approaches every match as if it could be the last game of his career, putting maximum effort into every ball on the field.
One Of ODI Cricket’s Greatest Players
Kohli is widely regarded as one of the greatest ODI batters in cricket history.
He was part of India’s 2011 World Cup-winning squad and also played a major role in India’s Champions Trophy success last year.
In over 300 ODI matches, Kohli has scored nearly 15,000 runs at an exceptional average of close to 59 — second only to Sachin Tendulkar in all-time ODI run charts.
He is especially known for his remarkable ability while chasing targets, with his batting average becoming even stronger in second-innings run chases.
Interestingly, Kohli also enjoys an outstanding ODI record in South Africa, one of the host nations for the 2027 World Cup.
‘People Are Trying To Complicate Things’
Without naming anyone directly, Kohli hinted that some people around Indian cricket tend to create unnecessary doubts despite publicly backing players.
He questioned why players are reassured one moment and then scrutinised the next.
“If you trust someone’s ability, then there’s no need to keep questioning how they operate,” Kohli said.
The veteran batter added that he prefers honesty and clarity over mixed signals about his future.
His remarks have once again sparked discussion over how long one of India’s biggest cricket icons plans to continue in international cricket.
