![Virat Kohli will only play ODIs now [Source: @Wellutwt/x.com]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1747219407281_ViratKohli'sODIlist(1).jpg?type=mq)
Virat Kohli will only play ODIs now [Source: @Wellutwt/x.com]
Virat Kohli has stepped away from the Test arena. He has already waved goodbye to T20Is after that fairytale World Cup win in 2024 and now, Kohli is down to just one format: ODIs.
List Of ODI Matches Virat Kohli Will Play Before The 2027 World Cup
While the news of Kohli’s Test retirement left fans across the globe heartbroken, there is still some silver lining as he is not done yet. The next ODI World Cup in 2027, hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia is likely to be his swan song in international cricket. And until then, he jas still got some fire left to unleash.
So what does the road look like from now till the 2027 World Cup? Let’s break down every ODI match Kohli is set to feature in: 27 matches, across 9 series and 8 opponents.
August 2025 Tour of Bangladesh
After the Champions Trophy high in early 2025, India return to ODIs in August with a three-match series in Bangladesh. Expect spin-friendly decks, tight contests and Kohli grinding it out like only he can. A perfect place to get the rhythm back.
October-November 2025 Tour of Australia
One of the biggest tests on the calendar. India head Down Under for another three-match ODI series and this time, Kohli will be keen to make a statement.
November-December 2025 Home Series vs South Africa
Next up, Virat Kohli returns home turf to face the Proteas. Three ODIs that will test both technique and temperament. With both teams looking to lock in their core before the World Cup, expect full-strength squads and serious matchups.
January 2026 Home Series vs New Zealand
It will be Champions Trophy finalists locking horns again. India vs New Zealand in a three-match ODI series on Indian soil, a rivalry that has always delivered. Kohli has had his share of ups and downs against the Kiwis, and he will want to go big this time.
June 2026 Home Series vs Afghanistan
This one might fly under the radar but don’t sleep on Afghanistan. With spinners who can trouble even the best, this three-match series is set to test India’s middle order. Kohli’s experience in handling spin will be key here.
July 2026 Tour of England
Another away trip. Three ODIs in England, probably under overcast skies and seaming conditions. Kohli has a history with England, the battles, the criticism, the redemption arc. You can bet he will be itching to leave one final stamp there.
September-October 2026 Home Series vs West Indies
The Caribbean boys land in India for three ODIs. While the have been inconsistent, they have got power-hitters who can take the game away in a flash. Kohli will be looking to lead by example in this home series.
October-November 2026 Home Series vs New Zealand (Again)
The Kiwis return to India for round two, another three-match series, just months after their last face-off. Kohli will want to make up for that infamous 2024 whitewash in Test cricket and put the Blackcaps on notice in ODIs.
December 2026 Home Series vs Sri Lanka
To round off the pre-World Cup schedule, India host Sri Lanka for three ODIs. It will be personal as Kohli & Co. will be eyeing payback after that shocking 0-2 defeat in Sri Lanka in 2024.
.jpg?type=mq "New Replacement Rules In IPL!")
 "Jatin")
.jpg?type=mq "\"Big Shoes To Fill\" James Anderson Turns Arch-Rival Virat Kohli Into 'GOAT' Of Test Cricket")