Virat Kohli Pushes Back Against BCCI’s Domestic Cricket Mandate for 2027 World Cup

Virat Kohli issued a subtle but firm response to the BCCI’s insistence on senior players participating in domestic cricket ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup. The star batter used his post-match presentation in Ranchi to clarify his stance, minutes after scoring a match-winning century against South Africa.

Virat Kohli delivered a vintage performance in India’s 17-run victory in the opening ODI against South Africa, smashing his 52nd ODI hundred—his first since February—during a superb 135 off 120 balls. The knock not only strengthened his record-breaking tally of ODI centuries but also pushed him closer to Sachin Tendulkar’s long-standing run-scoring record in the format.

However, after accepting the Player of the Match award, Kohli addressed the growing speculation around the BCCI’s reported directive that senior players must participate in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy to remain in contention for the 2027 ODI World Cup.

'Most of my cricket is mental' — Kohli’s subtle message to BCCI

Amid reports suggesting that non-participation in the domestic List A tournament could affect selection, Kohli responded calmly but clearly:

“I’ve never been a big believer in a lot of preparation… All my cricket has been mental. As long as I feel good mentally, I can play the game.”

With both Kohli and Rohit Sharma now one-format players after retiring from Tests and T20Is, the Indian team management is concerned about match-time, form and long-term workload. But Kohli insisted that his fitness and mental sharpness remain intact.

“I work physically very hard every day of my life… As long as my fitness levels are up and my mental enjoyment and sharpness are there, it’s fine.”

His exceptional reflexes, quick running between the wickets and authoritative strokeplay in Ranchi showed he remains fully match-ready despite staying largely away from the public eye following his return to London after IPL 2025.

Will Kohli play Vijay Hazare Trophy?

According to a report by The Times of India, Kohli has agreed to join Delhi’s squad for a few matches in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. He is expected to return to London after the South Africa series but may rejoin Delhi in Bengaluru before reporting back to Team India for the New Zealand home series in January.

The DDCA, however, has not officially confirmed his participation.

Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma has been more publicly visible, sharing fitness updates and net sessions as he prepares for a comeback to ODI cricket.