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Indian team head coach Gautam Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar have said many times that no one’s place is confirmed for the 2027 ODI World Cup. Gambhir-Agarkar’s statements are linked to Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. It is understood that he is saying through gestures that Kohli-Rohit will have to perform, only then they will be included in the ODI World Cup team.

Kohli-Rohit have retired from Test and T20I. Both these greats now play only ODIs for Team India. Considering the age of both of them, it is not considered certain that they will play in the 2027 ODI World Cup. Meanwhile, Kohli has given a big statement. Kohli has made it clear in a podcast of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) that he wants to play the World Cup but does not want to be a part of such a set-up where he has to prove his ability and importance.

I can’t live in a pressurized environment – Kohli

Kohli has said that he hates the constant change in assessment of his importance. Kohli said, ‘I am always prepared because this is my everyday life. I exercise, we eat good food at home. I like to live like this. It is not limited to just playing cricket. I mean the things happening regarding the 2027 World Cup and everything else. I have been asked many times whether you want to play in 2027.

He said, ‘I know the answer to this and if I am playing then I want to play cricket. I want to continue playing. It is great for India to play the World Cup.

Kohli further said, ‘My view is very clear. If I can contribute something in the environment I am a part of and the team also feels that I can contribute, then I will keep playing. I cannot live in that environment if I am made to feel the need to prove my worth and value.

Ready to field 50 overs

37-year-old Kohli said that he will remain with the team as long as the team needs him. He said, ‘I am honest about my preparations, I am honest about my approach towards the game. I work hard with full dedication. When I go to play, I work no less than others but even more than them and play properly.

Kohli said that he is always ready to work hard. “This is how I prepare,” he said. I am ready to field up to 50 overs. Even after playing like this, if I have to prove my worth and my worth, then that place is not for me.

‘Did not play to prove anything in Vijay Hazare’

Kohli cited the example of playing in the Vijay Hazare Trophy after two decades during the 2025-26 season. He played two matches for Delhi and scored a century in one of them and also became the player to score 16,000 runs in the fewest innings in List-A. He said, ‘I went there with a clear mind that I don’t have to prove anything to anyone there. I went there to play because I like playing sports. Kohli said, ‘I want to play because I love the game. I started enjoying batting a lot. I felt like a child again.