Former England cricketer Monty Panesar believes Virat Kohli still has plenty of international cricket left in him, despite the Indian batter confirming that the 2027 ODI World Cup will be his final appearance in the tournament. Kohli’s announcement has sparked speculation over his international retirement, with the 37-year-old set to enter the final phase of his ODI career. However, Panesar feels Kohli’s hunger, fitness and intensity suggest that the former India captain is unlikely to immediately walk away from the format after the World Cup.

“Virat Kohli is still very hungry. He plays with tremendous intensity, pays great attention to his fitness and motivates everyone around him. I also get motivated to go to the gym when I see Virat training,” Monty Panesar told ANI.

The former England spinner also suggested that Kohli’s decision to call the 2027 World Cup his last could be helping him maintain an even greater level of intensity.

ALSO READ: Indian Cricketers Mourn Nana Patekar’s Demise, Ajinkya Rahane and Shikhar Dhawan Pay Tribute

“He was saying that this could be his last World Cup, but perhaps that’s part of his mindset. When you think you have only 10-15 games left, you approach every game with full intensity, treating each one like an event,” Monty Panesar added.

Panesar also backed Rohit Sharma to remain in contention for India’s 2027 ODI World Cup squad. The former England cricketer described Rohit as a “great player” and highlighted his ability to change the course of a game with his aggressive batting.

“When he gets going, he can be absolutely destructive with the bat. He is an attacking batter, hits the ball a long way and plays with a clear mindset,” Monty Panesar said.

ALSO READ: Sourav Ganguly Targets Playoffs As Delhi Capitals Head Coach For IPL 2027

He further argued that India could benefit from having a player of Rohit’s experience and quality in the squad, provided the veteran earns his place. Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli recently featured in India’s three-match ODI series against the West Indies. The two senior batters are now expected to continue playing in the build-up to the 2027 ODI World Cup, with India scheduled to face New Zealand in the first ODI on November 4.