More ODIs for India in 2026–27:The dual impact of India’s top two cricketers Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma is currently determining the timetable for international cricket matches. The cricket boards have requested from Board of Control for Cricket in India BCCI to expand One Day International matches during 2026-27 season because current players approach their professional careers end.
The “Kohli-Rohit Effect” on Global Cricket Scheduling
For more than ten years Kohli and Rohit have ranked as top cricket attractions throughout the world. The Indian national team’s international matches generate high television ratings and stadium attendance and worldwide viewership because of their presence.
The NZC has requested the BCCI for two additional ODIs during India’s tour to New Zealand later this year.
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— InsideSport (@InsideSportIND) March 3, 2026
Multiple cricket boards from New Zealand Sri Lanka and Ireland have requested additional ODI matches for their bilateral series because they recognize this impact. The reason is simple: both Kohli and Rohit are now primarily playing ODIs which makes this format the most reliable opportunity for overseas fans to watch the legendary duo live.
More ODIs for India in 2026–27: New Zealand’s Proposal
The most important proposal has emerged from New Zealand Cricket according to reports. The original white-ball schedule for New Zealand’s tour of India during the 2026-27 season included three ODIs and five T20 International matches.
New Zealand officials have requested the BCCI to increase the number of ODIs according to reports. The proposed plan requires the ODI segment of the tour to expand into five matches. New Zealand aims to benefit from Kohli and Rohit’s popularity because this change will prepare both teams for upcoming ICC tournaments.
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Ireland and Sri Lanka Exploring ODI Opportunities
Other boards are also exploring similar changes. Cricket Ireland has reportedly discussed the possibility of scheduling an ODI series against India around July 2026. The planned T20I series would either be replaced or supplemented by this proposed change.
“There was willingness from India to come down at the end of December to play two T20Is to raise funds, but there was simply no time to organise it, especially with no broadcaster available,” the SLC Chairman said.
Sri Lanka Cricket plans to change some of their scheduled T20 matches into ODI matches according to their official statement. The officials want to show that their ODI series will draw more fans, which will include two of Sri Lanka’s final international matches featuring Kohli and Rohit.
India’s Tentative ODI Calendar for 2026–27
The 2026–27 season will allow India to participate in more ODIs if these proposals receive approval. The preliminary schedule discussions indicate that the team will compete against various teams during their upcoming bilateral series matches.
The current ODI schedule discussions include planned series matches against Afghanistan England West Indies New Zealand and Sri Lanka which will take place throughout the entire season. The boards will determine whether to schedule additional matches against Ireland through their ongoing negotiations.
