The 37-year-old, who retired from Twenty20 Internationals after India’s 2024 World Cup triumph and stepped away from Test cricket last year, remains active only in the ODI format.

Speaking on a podcast hosted by his Indian Premier League franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore, Kohli said he would not seek selection unless he and the team management believed he could continue adding value.

“If I can add value to the environment that I’m a part of and the environment feels like I can add value, I’ll be seen,” Kohli said.

Kohli added that he approaches every match with maximum intensity, saying he prepares to field “every ball like it’s the last ball” of his career.

The former India captain played 13 ODIs last year, scoring 651 runs, and returned to IPL action after last representing India in January. He has already scored one century during the current IPL season.

Kohli, one of the most prolific ODI batters in cricket history, has amassed 14,797 runs in 311 one-day internationals at an average of 58.71. Only Sachin Tendulkar has scored more ODI runs, with 18,426.

Now in his 17th year in international cricket, Kohli has continued to face scrutiny over his consistency despite strong performances against South Africa and New Zealand following a difficult series against Australia last year.

Reflecting on criticism surrounding his performances, Kohli questioned fluctuating assessments of his role within the team environment.

“Either tell me on day one I’m not good enough or I’m not needed,” he said. “Or if you’ve said I’m good enough and you say we’re not even thinking otherwise, then be quiet.”

The 2027 ODI World Cup is scheduled to be held in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia in October and November next year.

India suffered a seven-wicket defeat in Perth, but Ponting believes the two veteran players will quickly regain form and continue to contribute significantly to the team’s success.

The series, which is part of India’s international cricket calendar leading up to the 2027 Cricket World Cup, moves to Adelaide on Thursday before concluding in Sydney on Saturday.

While Kohli and Rohit did not have their best outings in Perth — Rohit was dismissed for 8, edging Josh Hazlewood to second slip, and Kohli was caught for a duck off Mitchell Starc — Ponting emphasized that these small setbacks should not overshadow their legacy and talent.

“You don’t write off champion players ever. These two have been among the best, and while I’ve said before that Virat’s the best 50-over player I’ve ever seen, you don’t write them off,” Ponting said on the ICC Review podcast.

He added that both players are likely to make a strong comeback in Adelaide, a venue he described as ideal for batting and a rewarding place to play cricket.

Kohli and Rohit now play exclusively in the 50-over format, having retired from other formats of the game. Their return to competitive cricket on Sunday was their first since winning the Champions Trophy in March, marking a new chapter as they focus on preparation for the next World Cup.

Despite the initial hiccup, the duo’s experience, skill, and mental toughness are expected to shine through in the upcoming matches.

Ravi Shastri, who coached both players during their peak years, echoed Ponting’s optimism, highlighting the respect and admiration both Kohli and Rohit command in India and globally.

Shastri noted that the players would not jeopardize their legacy, even while pushing themselves to deliver strong performances. “The contribution is over a decade, decade and a half in the case of Virat. It’s special.

Whether they finish tomorrow or the day after or whenever, that legacy will remain,” he said.

Analysts point out that both players bring tactical acumen, match-winning ability, and leadership qualities to the team, even when they are not scoring big runs.

Their presence strengthens India’s batting lineup, providing stability and confidence to younger teammates, who can look up to them for guidance in high-pressure situations.

Adelaide offers a promising opportunity for Kohli and Rohit to find their rhythm. Known for its batting-friendly conditions and sporting pitch, the venue is expected to allow both players to play freely, showcase their strengths, and contribute to India’s performance in the series.

Fans are also eager to see them back in form, as both cricketers continue to inspire the next generation of players with their technique, temperament, and commitment.

Despite the loss in Perth, India’s team remains strong overall, with a deep batting lineup, versatile bowlers, and a balanced mix of youth and experience.

The upcoming matches against Australia are an opportunity for Kohli and Rohit to reaffirm their status as match-winners, and for the team to gain momentum in preparation for future tournaments.

Ponting concluded by expressing confidence in the players’ ability to bounce back quickly. “They’ll find a way to contribute and win games for their team, and if they do that, they’ll most likely be in that World Cup team in 2027.

I’d expect to see both those guys bounce back into it pretty quickly,” he said. His comments underline the resilience, dedication, and enduring class of two of India’s greatest limited-overs cricketers.

With Adelaide and Sydney ahead, fans and teammates alike can expect exciting cricket and memorable performances from Kohli and Rohit, reinforcing why they are regarded among the finest batsmen in the history of Indian cricket.