‘Virat Kohli is going to be there’ in 2027 World Cup, Former cricketer gives strong verdict

Former South Africa wicketkeeper Mark Boucher has stated in strong confidence that Virat Kohli will definitely play in the 2027 ODI World Cup, which is scheduled to be jointly hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. Talking to ANI in Paarl, Boucher stated clearly that there are absolutely no health worries regarding the participation of Virat Kohli in the World Cup.

However, Boucher was quick to add that Kohli is physically fit to the point that he does not think the former Indian captain has any reason to stop playing professionally until the next World Cup if he wishes to continue playing for India.

“Virat is going to be there. There’s no doubt in my mind. I mean, he’s given up a couple of the formats at the moment. There’s nothing about his fitness at all. It’s just about whether he actually wants to play. And I think for me, I’m sure that his mind is set on coming here and playing in another World Cup. And India needs him as well. I mean, we’ve seen in India that Test cricket, where Rohit and Virat are not there, it does leave a hole. And so I think the World Cup in South Africa would be a better tournament if Virat Kohli is involved. And obviously, for India, it would be fantastic if he stands there as well,” Boucher said.

However, Kohli, who previously took a break from Test cricket and T20 International cricket, has been phenomenal in 50-over cricket in the last few months. After a difficult phase in October 2025, when he snared two consecutive ducks in Australia, there is a rather astonishing turn-around in form from the 35-year-old cricketer.