The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has sent a clear message to two of the country's legendary cricketers, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. The board has told them that if they wish to remain in the ODI team, they must participate in domestic ODI tournaments. Both players have now retired from Test and T20 International formats and are active only in the ODI team. Therefore, the board and team management want them to maintain their match fitness and form through domestic cricket.
Vijay Hazare Trophy May Return
According to a report in the Indian Express, the first step in this direction is being seen as the Vijay Hazare Trophy match to be played on December 24th. This match is the only ODI match in the domestic calendar between the ODI series against South Africa scheduled from December 3rd to 9th and the New Zealand series starting on January 11th. According to reports, Rohit Sharma has informed the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) that he will be available for the Vijay Hazare Trophy. However, there is currently no clarity on Virat Kohli's availability.
Domestic cricket is essential to staying in the team.
A senior BCCI official told The Indian Express, "The board and team management have made it clear to both of them that if they want to play for India, they must play domestic cricket. Since they have retired from two formats, this is essential to maintain fitness and rhythm." Just last month, selection committee chairman Ajit Agarkar also stressed the need for players to participate in domestic cricket. He said, "We have previously made it clear that players should play domestic cricket whenever they are available. This is the way to keep themselves sharp, especially when there is a long break from international cricket."
Rohit begins preparations, hopes remain for Kohli.
Rohit Sharma has indicated that he may also participate in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 tournament, starting November 26. He is currently practicing at the Sharad Pawar Indoor Academy in Mumbai. Kohli, meanwhile, is currently living in London, and the board is hoping to see him in the domestic circuit soon. Both players played one Ranji Trophy match each last season. In January, Kohli took the field for Delhi after 12 years, while Rohit played for Mumbai after 10 years.
Rohit had said at the time, "Since 2019, when I started playing Test cricket regularly, I have had very little time for domestic cricket. After playing international cricket all year, some rest is necessary. But now we are taking this issue seriously."
Strategic Thinking for the 2027 World Cup
Selection Committee Chief Ajit Agarkar also clarified that Kohli and Rohit are not on any trial. He said, "Both players have achieved a lot for Indian cricket, not only in trophies but also in runs. There is still a lot of time until the next World Cup (2027). If they are playing one format and playing domestic matches after a long break, we will continue to assess their situation." Agarkar also added that many changes are possible by 2027, and this will not only depend on Kohli and Rohit, but the status of many young players may also change by then.
Seeking a Balance Between Experience and Form
This initiative by the BCCI indicates that the board now seeks a balance between experience and performance. While entering domestic cricket will test the players' fitness and technique, it will also send a message to young players that "place is determined by play, not name." For Kohli and Rohit, returning to domestic cricket will not be a mere formality; it could be a step that determines their form and future direction.
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