Rohit Sharma And Virat Kohli: What 2026 Holds For India’s ODI Icons |

Updated: January 01, 2026 15:46

Image Source : Times of India

In 2026, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will feature exclusively in One Day Internationals for India, having retired from Tests and T20Is. With a packed ODI calendar ahead of the 2027 World Cup, both legends aim to cement their legacy, chase records, and guide India’s batting lineup.

The year 2026 marks a new chapter for Indian cricket as Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, two of the game’s modern greats, continue their journey in national colours but only in ODIs. Following their retirement from T20Is after India’s 2024 World Cup triumph and from Tests in 2025, the duo now focuses solely on the 50-over format. Fans can expect them to play pivotal roles in India’s ODI roadmap leading up to the 2027 World Cup.

Key highlights from the announcement include

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will only represent India in ODIs from 2026 onwards.
India’s ODI schedule begins with a three-match series against New Zealand in January, followed by Afghanistan and England later in the year.
Both players ended 2025 as the top two ranked batters in ICC ODI rankings, reaffirming their dominance.
Rohit Sharma is chasing the milestone of 400 ODI sixes, having already surpassed Shahid Afridi’s record with 355 sixes.
Virat Kohli continues to build on his record as the highest run-scorer in ODIs, with eyes on further milestones in 2026.
Their presence provides stability and experience to India’s batting lineup, crucial for grooming younger talents.
Analysts note that their decision to focus on ODIs reflects a strategic move to balance workload and maximize impact ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
The duo’s performances in domestic tournaments like the Vijay Hazare Trophy show they remain in peak form.

As India prepares for a busy ODI calendar, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s roles become even more significant. Their experience, consistency, and hunger for records will not only inspire teammates but also shape India’s campaign in the lead-up to the next World Cup. For fans, 2026 offers a chance to witness two legends scripting the final chapters of their international careers in the format they have mastered.

Sources: Moneycontrol, ABP Live, Zee News, India TV News

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