The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has unveiled the national team's One-Day International (ODI) calendar for the year 2026, setting the stage for a significant return. This schedule is particularly awaited by fans eager to see the comeback of two modern legends, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, in the 50-over format following their retirement from T20 Internationals after the 2024 T20 World Cup triumph.
A Light Year for ODIs Before the Champions Trophy
The year 2026 is strategically light on ODI matches for Team India, with only six 50-over games currently on the docket. This limited schedule is designed to allow players ample time to participate in domestic T20 leagues like the IPL and to focus on preparation for the major ICC event looming at the year's end: the ICC Champions Trophy 2027 in South Africa. The primary focus for the team in 2026 will be on building a robust squad and testing combinations for that prestigious tournament.
According to the Future Tours Programme (FTP) released by the BCCI, India's ODI engagements in 2026 will be confined to two bilateral series. The action begins with a three-match ODI series against England at home in the early part of the year. This will be followed by another three-match ODI series, this time away in Sri Lanka, scheduled for later in the year. Specific dates and venues for these series are yet to be finalized and announced by the board.
The Anticipated Return of Kohli and Sharma
The most compelling narrative around the 2026 ODI schedule revolves around the return of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Both stalwarts bid farewell to T20 International cricket after leading India to glory in the 2024 World Cup. Consequently, their next appearance in national colors is now confirmed to be in the ODI format.
This means fans will have to wait until early 2026 to see Kohli and Sharma back on the field playing for India. Their comeback is expected to happen during the home series against England, barring any unforeseen circumstances or rest rotations managed by the team. Their experience and prowess will be crucial as India begins its long-term build-up towards defending its Champions Trophy title in 2027.
Strategic Planning and Future Focus
The light ODI schedule for 2026 is a clear indicator of the BCCI's and team management's strategic planning. With the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy also on the horizon (scheduled in Pakistan), the subsequent year is being used as a transitional phase. The limited number of games allows for:
- Managing player workload, especially for senior cricketers.
- Providing opportunities to younger players in other formats.
- Intense focus on the Indian Premier League (IPL) and Test cricket.
- Early groundwork and experimentation for the 2027 Champions Trophy campaign.
While the T20 format will see a new generation taking center stage, the ODI team in 2026 is expected to blend the seasoned wisdom of Kohli and Sharma with emerging talent. This period will be vital for identifying and grooming players who will form the core of India's challenge in South Africa in 2027.
In summary, Indian cricket fans marking their calendars for 2026 can look forward to a total of six ODIs featuring the national team. The year will be headlined by the much-anticipated return of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to ODI cricket during the home series against England. This limited schedule underscores a period of strategic rest, rotation, and focused preparation for the major ICC events that define the cricketing landscape of the late 2020s.
