India captain Rohit Sharma has made it clear that winning the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa remains his biggest career ambition, firmly dismissing speculation of an early exit from the 50-over format.
Interviews are growing momentum about Rohit’s future in ODIs after his modest returns in the recent series against New Zealand where he scored just 61 runs in 3 innings. Moreover, Yashasvi Jaiswal’s century in the third ODI against South Africa fueled the debate about a generational change, but the Indian skipper underlined his desire to continue chasing the top prize in the format he grew up adoring.
In a video that has since gone viral on social media, Rohit spoke candidly about his emotional connection with the 50-over World Cup and his desperation to lift the trophy for India.
“I definitely want to go there and win the World Cup for my country, which is something I’ve always looked up to. I grew up watching this World Cup after 50. Back then there was no T20 World Cup, no IPL and that was the pinnacle of cricket that happened every four years. So there was desperation, there was so much weight on that one trophy and I really want to do everything that is a trophy and work really hard and get it,” Rohit Sharma said in video.
ROHIT SHARMA TO PLAY ODI WORLD 2027
“I definitely want to go there and win the World Cup for my country, which is something I’ve always looked up to, growing up watching this World Cup for 50. There was no T20 World Cup back then, no IPL and that was the pinnacle. pic.twitter.com/sAtRmIkOsI— (@rushiii_12) February 11, 2026
Rohit eyes unfinished business in South Africa
Rohit’s remarks come at a time when his place and longevity in India’s ODI setup has come under intense scrutiny. However, his comments suggest so not yet ready to leave the format and instead sees the 2027 World Cup in South Africa as unfinished business. After leading India to the final of the 2023 ODI World Cup where they suffered a heartbreaking defeat at home against Australia, the veteran opener seems driven by the desire to have one last shot at glory on the biggest stage.
With the 2027 edition still over a year away, Rohit Sharma’s future will inevitably continue to be debated. But for now, the message from the captain is clear – he is ready to do whatever it takes to play in South Africa and win the ODI World Cup for India. Meanwhile, he will return to action in ODIs during the tour of England in July 2026.
– The end
Issued by:
Rishabh Beniwal
Published on:
February 12, 2026