After a disappointing T20I tour of Ireland and England, Team India has shifted its focus to the upcoming three-match ODI series against England, which begins on Tuesday, July 14, at Edgbaston. Ahead of the opening game, India captain Shubman Gill provided a major update on Virat Kohli’s future, confirming that the batting superstar remains a key part of India’s plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Gill revealed that he recently had detailed discussions with Kohli regarding India’s preparations for the 50-over World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe next year. According to the skipper, the team management has already begun identifying the core group of players expected to form the backbone of India’s World Cup campaign.
Speculation over the ODI futures of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma has continued ever since the veteran duo retired from Test cricket last year. Although both players have continued to contribute in the 50-over format, questions have repeatedly been raised about whether they would feature in another ICC World Cup. Gill, however, dismissed any uncertainty surrounding Kohli’s role.
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“There is absolutely no doubt about Virat Kohli’s place in our plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup. He will definitely play a very important role for us. Having a senior player of his calibre in the team is a huge advantage,” Shubman Gill said.
Shubman Gill on his discussion with Virat Kohli During Practice session:
“We were talking about the team combination, what would be the best combination for us in South Africa, and which players, even if they’re not in the team right now, can help us in the future!”
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— Fan GillTheWill (@GillTheWill77) July 13, 2026
The India captain also disclosed that he and Kohli recently discussed possible team combinations, player roles and the overall structure of the squad for the global tournament.
“Just a couple of days ago, we spoke about the 2027 World Cup, the players who could be part of the squad, those who may not be, and where everyone fits into the team. Virat is fully motivated and preparing himself for the tournament,” Shubman Gill added.
Kohli’s recent performances in ODI cricket have only strengthened his case. The former India captain has enjoyed an impressive run against New Zealand and South Africa, while also rediscovering his best form after a difficult phase against Australia. He carried that momentum into IPL 2026, scoring more than 600 runs and playing a pivotal role in Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s successful title defence.
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Gill also reaffirmed Rohit Sharma’s importance to the team despite the veteran opener enduring a mixed ODI series against Afghanistan before this England tour.
“Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have been the backbone of Indian cricket for more than a decade, and both remain integral to this team,” Shubman Gill said. With Gill leading a new generation and Kohli and Rohit continuing to provide experience, India appear determined to strike the right balance as they begin building towards the 2027 ODI World Cup.
