Former Australian fast bowler Andy Bichel said Virat Kohli can be a part of India’s ODI World Cup 2027 plans if he keeps scoring runs. Kohli has retired from Test cricket and Bichel reckons it helps the veteran batter to focus on the 50-overs format. Kohli has been a consistent performer in the 50-over version and has delivered consistently for India over the years.

Kohli has scored 14255 runs in 305 ODI matches at an impressive average of 57.71, including 51 centuries. The talisman recently made a comeback to professional cricket in the three-match ODI series against Australia but bagged two ducks in the first two games. However, he bounced back strongly in the final game, scoring 74 runs off 81 balls. 

“I think for someone like Virat he is very fit. He’s going along really well. Obviously, he still wants to play the IPL. RCB won it last year so he’s keen to go back-to-back there and do that. I guess dropping out of Test cricket gives him a focus point, to focus on his 50-over cricket. If he’s scoring well and giving it to the team, like he has been, then you can’t fault him for that. His currency is runs. He just needs to go out there and keep scoring and if he is, he can make the 2027 World Cup,” Andy Bichel said in an interview with TOI.

Bichel said Virat Kohli reminds him of his former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting as both have a similar way of playing.

“Virat Kohli is an absolute legend of the game. He always reminds of Ricky Ponting. Ricky played the same game, a very good batter. Virat is one of those players who really took the game on, really energetic and great to watch. Same as Ricky,” he said.

Kohli will next be seen in action in a three-match ODI series against South Africa in the home conditions.