Rohit Sharma, India’s renowned ODI player and former captain, has finally put an end to months of speculation over his future in 50-over cricket. The 38-year-old announced that he will play in the 2027 ICC ODI World Cup. He said he is determined to assist India win the one big prize that has so far escaped him.
Rohit was talking to a Make-A-Wish child on camera when the child asked him if he would still be playing when the next ODI World Cup comes around. The experienced batter smiled and said,
Child: “When is the next World Cup?”
“2027,” said Rohit Sharma.
Kid: “Are you going to play?”
Rohit Sharma: “Yes, I want to play.”
The video instantly went viral, and admirers on all social media sites loved it.
Rohit’s Future in ODIs: One Format Still Open
Rohit’s announcement comes at a time when many are still talking about his international career, especially since he withdrew from T20Is after India won the T20 World Cup in 2024 and left Test cricket earlier this year. This means that ODIs are the only international format he is still playing in, and he and Virat Kohli are both still important players in this format.
His statement comes at the same time as India’s preparations for the three-match ODI series against Australia, which starts on October 19 at the Optus Stadium in Perth. The series will be Rohit’s first time playing for India since they won the Champions Trophy in March 2025 without losing a match.
From Heartbreak in 2023 to a Dream of Redemption in 2027
Rohit Sharma’s Indian team was so strong in 2023 that they made it to the World Cup final, but they lost to Australia in the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, which was very sad.
People have been asking about his health, shape, and long-term viability since then. Reports say that Rohit has been training hard with former India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar, losing around 10 kg to improve his speed and stamina. The change shows that he is more determined than ever to stay at the top of his game before the 2027 tournament.
A Change in Leadership and the Future
The BCCI has made Shubman Gill the captain of the ODI team, although Rohit and Kohli are still on the team to help the future generation. Their knowledge and leadership would be very helpful as India’s youthful team gets ready for tough conditions abroad.
Rohit may not play in any major ICC event after the 2027 ICC ODI World Cup, which will be co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. The veteran opener seems more driven than ever to end his ODI career on a good note: as a World Cup winner.