Kohli Reaches 15,000 ODI Runs, Says 2027 World Cup Will Be His Last

India-West News Desk

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM- Virat Kohli became only the second batter after Sachin Tendulkar to reach 15,000 runs in men’s ODI cricket on September 27, achieving the landmark faster than any other batter in the format.

Kohli reached the mark with an unbeaten 139 off 88 balls against the West Indies at the Greenfield International Stadium. It was his 55th ODI century and helped India defeat the West Indies by eight wickets in the opening match of the three-game series.

Shubman Gill also scored a century, making 110, as India took a 1-0 lead.

Kohli said individual milestones have never been his focus, with his priority being to understand the match situation and do what is required for the team.

“Achievements come along,” he said after the game, adding that he was grateful for the opportunity to have played for India for so long.

Kohli, who now plays only ODIs for India after retiring from Test and T20 international cricket, said remaining physically fit and mentally fresh had been important to his consistency in the 50-over format.

He said he has challenged himself to increase his batting tempo and described the opportunity to develop a different version of his game as something that excites him at this stage of his career.

Kohli said physical fitness helps him remain mentally clear and play with the freedom he wants, while staying focused on the present.

He has also confirmed that the 2027 ODI World Cup will be his last for India. The tournament will be held in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia and will be Kohli’s fifth ODI World Cup.

Kohli said knowing that it would be his final World Cup for India was motivating him to give everything he could in pursuit of the title.

He also spoke about the demands of a 50-over World Cup, saying the format requires sustained intensity over the tournament and that playing in foreign conditions adds to the challenge.

With the World Cup a year away, Kohli said his goals were clear. He wants to continue working on different aspects of his game, maintain his fitness, contribute in the field and continue playing positively without becoming reckless.

Kohli added that playing only one international format had given him greater clarity about his goals and allowed him to approach opportunities without feeling unnecessary pressure.

His 151-run second-wicket partnership with Gill was a key part of India’s successful chase. Kohli praised the captain’s understanding of the game and said the two did not need to say much to each other while batting because both understood what was required.

Kohli also said young players should focus on the game once they enter the field rather than thinking about matters outside it. He advised them to be willing to take risks and put in the effort required for the team.

India will next face the West Indies in the second ODI of the three-match series. (With IANS Inputs)