Virat Kohli addresses the buzz revolving around the 2027 world cup saying, ‘If I still have to prove my worth, then that place is not for me’.
Virat Kohli had been straightforward to the chatter of the 2027 World Cup, saying that he is interested in playing but does not want to constantly prove his worth to remain in the team.
While speaking on the latest episode of RCB’s official podcast series, Virat Kohli reiterated his intention to extend his tenure within cricket, while stressing that his participation in any future editions of the World Cup will depend solely on whether he and the management of the team find him relevant to the team’s cause.
According to Virat Kohli, in contrast to his previous mindset, his current attitude toward cricket no longer depends on gaining external approval but is based purely on his love for the game and dedication to playing to the best of his ability in case the nation entrusts him with this responsibility.
Kohli on 2027 World Cup plans
“We’re in mid-2026. I’ve been asked so many times, ‘Do you want to play ‘27?’ Of course, if I’m playing, I want to play cricket,” Kohli said on the podcast.
“Playing a World Cup for India is amazing. But the value has to be clear. If I can add value to the environment and the environment feels I can add value, I will be seen.”
Kohli also said he would not want to operate in an environment where he has to repeatedly justify his place in the Indian side despite years of performance and commitment.
“If I am made to feel like I need to constantly prove my worth and value, then I am not in that space,” he said.
The 37-year-old remains one of India’s most experienced ODI players and is expected to stay in contention for the 2027 ODI World Cup, which will be held in South Africa.
Virat Kohli on preparation and fitness
Virat Kohli, having decided to retire from T20Is and Tests, has now limited himself to only playing ODI cricket and participating in the Indian Premier League, continuing to play for Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
In spite of a drastically reduced workload at the international level, Kohli’s form in ODIs has been completely intact. After making a comeback in June, Kohli scored three centuries and three fifties in just seven ODIs.
In addition to this, Kohli said that discipline, fitness, and preparation continue to form the core values of his professional career.
“When I arrive to play, I give my absolute best. I work as hard, if not harder, than anyone else,” Kohli said.
He added that he prepares for matches throughout the year and not only before major tournaments or series.
“I was not going out to prove anything to anyone. I was going to play because I love playing the game,” he said.
Kohli seeks clarity from team management
Kohli also spoke about the importance of clarity from team management and selectors regarding a player’s role in the side.
“If you are trusted, stand by it. Either tell me on day one that I am not good enough, or if you believe I am, then stand by it,” he said.
The strategy that India will adopt for their ODI cricket prior to the 2027 World Cup remains in development under the leadership of the chair of selectors Ajit Agarkar and coach Gautam Gambhir.
The 2027 Men’s ODI World Cup will take place in South Africa.
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