Virat Kohli, the stalwart of Indian cricket, has already bid farewell to Test and T20I formats, narrowing his international commitments to just ODIs. Fans may next see him in action later this year during India’s white-ball tour of Australia. However, with Kohli now 36, discussions have begun to surface regarding his place in the team for the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup in South Africa.

Many believe that India, keeping an eye on the future, may look to invest in younger talent in the lead-up to the next World Cup. While that’s a logical progression, not everyone is convinced that Kohli should be ruled out based on age alone. Among them is former India chief selector Chetan Sharma, who has come forward to support Kohli’s continued presence in the team, provided he remains fit and in form.

Chetan Sharma emphasised that fitness and performance should outweigh age when it comes to selection decisions. In a candid conversation with Sports Yaari, Sharma said, “If Kohli is fit, then why shouldn’t he play? Age is just a number. If the selectors see that he is physically up for it and Virat feels good within himself, there’s absolutely no reason to sideline him.”

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Kohli last played for India during the triumphant ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign in the UAE, a tournament where his experience proved invaluable.

Chetan Sharma reiterated that as long as Kohli continues to contribute to India’s success, his place in the squad should not be questioned. “Whether a player is 20 or 39, if he is scoring runs and helping India win, that’s the player you want in your side,” he said.

Importantly, Sharma highlighted that final decisions will depend on both the selectors and Kohli himself. He believes Kohli will be the first to step aside if he ever feels he can no longer meet the team’s expectations. “Virat is someone who knows his game and body better than anyone. He will only take the field if he is certain he can win matches for India,” Sharma added.

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Since making his ODI debut in 2008, Kohli has been a consistent force in world cricket. In 302 ODI matches, he has amassed 14,181 runs at a staggering average of 57.88, including 51 centuries and 74 fifties. As India plans for the future, Kohli’s legacy, leadership, and hunger to win may still be vital ingredients in their 2027 World Cup plans.