India got the better of South Africa in the three-match ODI series (2-1). Indian cricket fans want to know one thing right now. When will Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma play their next match? Both superstars have stepped away from Tests and T20Is, so ODIs are now their only international format.
This decision makes every ODI series even more important. It also raises excitement, because fans know that the next few years may be the final stretch of their legendary careers. India’s ODI journey from 2025 to 2027 is quite long. The schedule gives both seniors enough chances to prepare for one last World Cup run.
It also gives the selectors a clear path to judge their form, fitness, and consistency. Let’s break down what lies ahead. The next three years include several bilateral series at home and overseas. Each series is placed in such a way that India can test its core players while slowly shaping the squad for the 2027 World Cup.
Here are the major ODI series that India will play before the tournament:
| Series | Matches | Dates |
| India vs New Zealand (in India) | 3 | 11-18 January 2026 |
| India vs Afghanistan (in India) | 3 | June 2026 |
| India vs England (in England) | 3 | 14th July 2026-19th July 2026 |
| India vs Bangladesh (in Bangladesh) | 3 | September 2026 |
| India vs West Indies (in West Indies) | 3 | September/October 2026 |
| India vs New Zealand (In New Zealand) | 3 | October/November 2026 |
| India vs Sri Lanka (In India) | 3 | January 2027 |
| Asia Cup 2027 (in Bangladesh) | 2-6 | July 2027 |
Kohli and Rohit will be seen regularly across 2025 and 2026, with close to 20–25 ODIs available for them before the 2027 World Cup. This number is more than enough for them to maintain rhythm, refine technique, and anchor India’s middle and top order.
For India, the 2027 World Cup is a major goal. The team has reached semifinals and finals in past editions but has not lifted the trophy since 2011. That drought makes this cycle even more important.
Kohli and Rohit still remain two of India’s most experienced ODI players. They know how to chase totals. They know how to guide young players. And they know how to handle big-match pressure. Their experience is India’s biggest asset. But it also comes with new responsibilities.
The management wants a strong core around them, but they also want to avoid over-dependence. So India will mix seniors with youngsters throughout these series. This balanced approach should help India create a stable and confident ODI side by 2027.
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This phase of Kohli and Rohit’s careers will be heavily monitored. They no longer play two formats, so they must stay in peak shape for ODIs. The team’s medical staff and management will follow strict workload plans. India wants both players fresh for major overseas trips, such as the away series against New Zealand in late 2026.
A Realistic Road to 2027
The next two years will show exactly where both players stand. If they maintain their fitness and form, they will naturally walk into the 2027 World Cup squad. If their rhythm drops, the selectors will face a tough decision.
But right now, both remain central to India’s ODI plans. They bring maturity, stability, and match-winning ability. India still trusts them to deliver when it matters most. Kohli and Rohit will continue to carry India’s hopes in ODIs. Fans will see them often in 2025 and 2026 as India plays a steady run of bilateral series. This long schedule gives them a perfect chance to sharpen their game before the 2027 World Cup.
The next few years might be the final chapter of their ODI journey, but they walk into this phase with pride, discipline, and hunger. Every match now matters. Every run now has value. And every appearance they make will be special for fans who have grown up watching them dominate world cricket.
