Kohli & Rohit: India’s 50-Over Roadmap to 2027 WC

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma reminded the cricketing world of their unmatched value once again, guiding India to a 2-1 ODI series victory over South Africa after a tough Test campaign. Even as conversations continue around their potential involvement in the 2027 ODI World Cup, both veterans remain essential pillars of India’s white-ball setup. Their performances in the recently concluded series only strengthened that belief.

Kohli finished the three-match contest with a remarkable 302 runs, including two centuries and a half-century—showcasing the elite consistency that has defined his career. Rohit, on the other hand, added 146 runs with two well-timed half-centuries that stabilized India whenever needed. Their outing against South Africa marked their final appearance for India in 2025, before both senior stars stepped away briefly ahead of India’s next assignments.

As Spin24star breaks down India’s 50-over roadmap toward the 2027 World Cup, one major question remains top of mind: When will Kohli and Rohit return to action?

Kohli & Rohit’s Return: When Do They Play Next?

Following their successful ODI series, both Rohit and Kohli are set to return for India’s upcoming five-match T20I series against South Africa, beginning December 9. After a month-long break, the experienced duo will reunite with the squad as India prepares for the T20 World Cup year.

While T20Is will dominate the immediate spotlight, India’s next 50-over assignment is set for early 2026. This makes Kohli and Rohit’s return to ODIs particularly significant as attention shifts to long-term planning for the 2027 World Cup.

India’s First ODI Challenge in 2026

India will open their 2026 ODI season with a three-match series against New Zealand—an important opportunity to fine-tune combinations and assess the form of senior players.

India vs New Zealand – ODI Fixtures (January 2026)

• 11 January 2026 – 1st ODI, Baroda

• 14 January 2026 – 2nd ODI, Rajkot

• 18 January 2026 – 3rd ODI, Indore

Both Rohit and Kohli are expected to be available for this crucial home series, which will serve as a strong starting point in India’s long journey toward the 2027 World Cup.

India’s ODI Path to the 2027 World Cup – Full Schedule

Spin24star provides a clear breakdown of India’s 50-over fixtures leading up to the ICC ODI World Cup in late 2027:

2026

• January 11–18: India vs New Zealand (3 ODIs, at home)

• June: India vs Afghanistan (3 ODIs, at home)

• 14–19 July: India vs England (3 ODIs, in England)

• September: India vs Bangladesh (3 ODIs, in Bangladesh)

• Sept/Oct: India vs West Indies (3 ODIs, in West Indies)

• Oct/Nov: India vs New Zealand (3 ODIs, in New Zealand)

2027

• January: India vs Sri Lanka (3 ODIs, at home)

• July: Asia Cup 2027 (2–6 ODIs, in Bangladesh)

• Oct–Nov: ODI World Cup 2027 (South Africa, Zimbabwe & Namibia)

While the Future Tour Programme beyond March 2027 remains unconfirmed, India will likely participate in additional bilateral ODIs before major tournaments that year.

Domestic Preparations for Kohli & Rohit

Ahead of India’s return to ODI cricket, both superstars are set to participate in the Vijay Hazare Trophy beginning December 24. Kohli will represent Delhi, while Rohit will turn out for Mumbai. Their involvement highlights the emphasis on maintaining match readiness, especially in a year where ODI opportunities are limited.

What This Means for India’s World Cup Build-Up

India’s ODI calendar between 2026 and 2027 reflects a strategic mix of home and overseas assignments. Matches in England, Bangladesh, the West Indies, and New Zealand will give the team exposure to varied conditions—essential ahead of the 2027 World Cup, scheduled in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.

For Spin24star readers, the key takeaway is clear:

Kohli and Rohit are not stepping away from ODIs anytime soon. Their presence will continue to shape India’s approach, stability, and experience as the team builds toward another World Cup campaign.

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