How many matches are left in Virat Kohli's career before 2027 ODI World Cup?

Star India batter Virat Kohli’s much-anticipated return to action is on the horizon as he’s all set to play in the upcoming three-match ODI series against West Indies, beginning on September 27. Kohli last played in the ODI series in England, where he scored two half-centuries in three innings. 

Having announced his retirement from T20Is and Tests, Virat Kohli now only dons the blue jersey while playing in the 50-over format. The right-handed batter has the second-most centuries to his name in international cricket with 85 hundreds.

He’s only behind his idol and legendary India batter Sachin Tendulkar, who slammed a whopping 100 international centuries during his illustrious 24-year career. With Kohli 15 centuries away from levelling Tendulkar at the top, fans eagerly wait for his return as he continues his conquest to emulate his idol’s feat.

However, there have been speculations around Kohli’s possible retirement after the ODI World Cup 2027 in Southern Africa, which leaves him only a handful of matches to level or break the most centuries record.

How many matches left for Virat Kohli?

As per the ICC’s (International Cricket Council) current Future Tours Programme (FTP), India will play 14 more matches until the next ODI World Cup, giving Kohli 14 more appearances in 50-over cricket. The Men in Blue are also set to play in the Asia Cup 2027 ahead of the World Cup, but the schedule for the tournament is yet to be announced. 

Moreover, there could also be a few more ODI series arrangements by the BCCI to help the team prepare well in the lead-up to the World Cup. However, as of now, Kohli will have at least 14 matches to play ahead of the mega event, which include three vs West Indies (India), five against New Zealand (away), three against Sri Lanka (home) and three more against Zimbabwe (home).

The schedule runs until January 9, 2027, with more matches set to be announced soon.

Virat Kohli's India schedule until ODI World Cup 2027