“Ask Me in Six Months”: Kohli Keeps 2027 World Cup Future Open

Xtratime Webdesk: With the 2027 ODI World Cup already looming on the horizon, the big question remains: will we see Virat Kohli in India colours at the tournament? In a recent interview, the former India captain offered a glimpse into how “King Kohli” views this stage of his career. Kohli says he is now in a “very relaxed” and happy phase, where the love of the game matters more than milestones and achievements. For him, cricket is now less about what he has already accomplished and more about continuing to learn, evolve and contribute. “You're never really a finished product,” he said, reflecting on how every game continues to teach him something both as a cricketer and as a person. 

Looking back at his leadership journey, Kohli recalled how a young group of Indian players and fast bowlers gradually developed a greater sense of responsibility and ownership. He explained that his approach was to give players the freedom to think for themselves and take decisions on the field. Rather than imposing every plan, he wanted players to have ownership of their own strengths and ideas. That philosophy, he said, was an important part of the team’s development. 

Kohli also opened up about his ODI future amid growing questions over his plans for the 2027 World Cup. He said his perspective is clear: as long as he can add value to the environment and the team feels he can contribute, he will give everything he has. He stressed that his motivation is no longer about proving his worth. “I'm not going out there to prove anything to anyone. I'm going to play because I love playing the game,” Kohli said in an interview on the RCB podcast.

On the possibility of playing in the 2027 World Cup, Kohli kept the door open without making a firm commitment. He said that if he is playing, he wants to continue, adding that playing a World Cup for India is “amazing”. However, he made it clear that the question does not need to be answered immediately. “Six months later, we'll ask that question again,” he said, leaving his 2027 plans open for now. 

Kohli also spoke about his willingness to help young cricketers, even those who could eventually become his opponents. He said helping youngsters reach their “potential best” will ultimately raise the standards of Indian cricket. “If someone's struggling, it's an opportunity for me to help,” he said, adding that he is always ready to talk to young players who genuinely need help with their game.