Virat Kohli Affirms Participation in Upcoming World Cup, Aims to Conclude India's 16-Year Drought

Virat Kohli Affirms Participation in Upcoming World Cup, Aims to Conclude India's 16-Year Drought

16 days ago | 5 Views

Indian cricketer Virat Kohli has outlined his aspirations for the future, expressing his desire to host the next ODI World Cup in 2027 across South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. Following the Champions Trophy victory by Rohit Sharma and his team in Dubai, there was considerable speculation regarding Kohli's future in the sport. However, he has made it clear that he has no intention of retiring in the near term and has reiterated his goal of securing another ICC title before concluding his career.

Recently, during an event in Mumbai, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) player was inquired about the potential "next big step" in his professional journey.

"Staying in the present. Any hints about the next big step?" the host posed.

In response, Virat Kohli stated, "The next big step. I don't know, but maybe try to win the next World Cup." His answer was met with enthusiastic applause and cheers from the audience.

Virat Kohli emerged as the top run-scorer in the 2023 ODI World Cup; however, his contributions were ultimately in vain as India fell short against Australia in the final match held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

India last claimed the ODI World Cup title in 2011 under the leadership of MS Dhoni. The team faced defeats in the semi-finals during the 2015 and 2019 tournaments, and in 2023, they reached the final, leaving Indian fans heartbroken.

The former captain of India retired from T20 Internationals following the team's victory in the T20 World Cup last year. Discussions regarding Kohli's future have been ongoing, particularly after his disappointing performance during the tour of Australia, where he managed only 190 runs across nine innings.

Nevertheless, Kohli demonstrated his exceptional talent in the Champions Trophy, scoring a century against Pakistan and delivering a crucial 84-run innings against Australia in the semi-final.

‘Disappointed with Australia tour’

Virat Kohli previously expressed his disappointment regarding his performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. The right-handed batsman consistently lost his wicket in a similar manner throughout the series, as he repeatedly chased deliveries outside the off-stump.

"When it comes to the level of disappointment I've felt, the most recent tour of Australia stands out as the most vivid for me. Therefore, it may seem particularly intense. However, I cannot dwell on it in that manner. I may not have another opportunity to tour Australia in the next four years," Kohli remarked at an event prior to the commencement of IPL 2025.

"I don't have the opportunity to rectify it. Thus, one must come to terms with whatever has transpired in life," he further noted.

On a positive note, Kohli has made a strong start in the 18th season of the IPL with RCB, accumulating 90 runs across two matches, which includes a half-century against the reigning champions, Kolkata Knight Riders.

Read Also: Dwayne Bravo Criticizes Rovman Powell's Removal as West Indies Captain: "Is This How You Reward a Player?"

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