India lifted its maiden ODI World Cup title under Kapil Dev in 1983, before ending a 28-year wait with a second triumph under MS Dhoni in 2011. Over the years, several Indian legends have featured in multiple editions of cricket’s biggest 50-over tournament. Here’s a look at the seven Indian players with the most ODI World Cup appearances.
1. Sachin Tendulkar – 6 World Cups
Sachin Tendulkar leads the list with six ODI World Cup appearances. He made his World Cup debut in 1992 and played his final edition in 2011, when India lifted the trophy on home soil.
2. Kapil Dev – 4 World Cups
India’s 1983 World Cup-winning captain featured in four editions of the tournament. His World Cup journey began in 1979 and concluded in 1992.
3. Mohammad Azharuddin – 4 World Cups
Former India skipper Mohammad Azharuddin also represented the country in four World Cups, making his debut in 1987 and his final appearance in 1999.
4. Javagal Srinath – 4 World Cups
One of India’s finest fast bowlers, Javagal Srinath played in four ODI World Cups between 1992 and 2003, becoming a key figure in India’s pace attack.
5. MS Dhoni – 4 World Cups
MS Dhoni featured in four World Cups, starting in 2007 and ending in 2019. He famously captained India to the 2011 World Cup title with a memorable match-winning knock in the final.
6. Virat Kohli – 4 World Cups
Virat Kohli has also played in four ODI World Cups, beginning in 2011 and most recently appearing in 2023. As an active player, he could add another World Cup to his tally.
7. Rohit Sharma – 3 World Cups
Rohit Sharma has represented India in three ODI World Cups so far, making his debut in 2015 before featuring in 2019 and 2023. With his international career still active, he remains in contention to extend that record in future editions.
India at ODI World Cup 2027
As the top-ranked side in One Day Internationals, Team India comfortably secures direct qualification for 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. Scheduled from October 4 to November 21, 2027, the 14th edition of the tournament will be co-hosted across South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.
Following their heartbreaking runner-up finish on home soil in 2023, the Men in Blue enter the expanded 14-team competition as top title contenders. Combining seasoned match-winners with an emerging core of talent, India aims to end its 16-year World Cup drought and capture a third global crown.
