New Delhi: India is expected to play a larger number of One Day Internationals in the coming months as the team intensifies preparations for the next ICC World Cup. Senior batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are set to remain central figures in India’s ODI plans as the build up to the ICC Cricket World Cup 2027 gathers pace.
According to reports, several cricket boards have approached the Board of Control for Cricket in India in recent months requesting the inclusion of more ODI matches during India’s overseas tours. The Indian board is understood to have responded positively to these proposals, which could see a noticeable increase in 50 over fixtures.
Following the conclusion of the Indian Premier League season, India are scheduled to host Afghanistan for a short series featuring one Test and three ODIs. The team will then travel to the United Kingdom for a tour against England that includes three ODIs and five T20 Internationals.
There is also a possibility of India playing an additional series against Ireland during the same tour. Discussions are ongoing between Cricket Ireland and the BCCI regarding the format and venue of the matches, which could either be played in Ireland or at Southampton in England.
The increased focus on ODIs is aimed at helping the Indian team adapt to the demands of the 50 over format ahead of the 2027 World Cup, which will be hosted in South Africa during September and October.
India’s recent home series defeat to New Zealand national cricket team has highlighted the need to build greater stability in the ODI squad. Head coach Gautam Gambhir has emphasised that several young players are still learning how to construct a full 50 over innings while balancing caution with aggressive scoring.
Young talents such as Yashasvi Jaiswal are expected to gain valuable experience through these additional matches. There are also discussions about a possible series against Sri Lanka, which could feature three games, though the final format is yet to be decided.
