BCCI Tells Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma: Play Domestic Cricket to Stay in India’s ODI Squad

In a rare but firm move, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has sent a clear message to Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma — if they wish to continue representing India in One-Day Internationals (ODIs), they must stay match-fit through domestic cricket. Both stalwarts, having retired from Tests and T20Is, remain vital to India’s 50-over setup. However, with a packed international calendar and limited ODI opportunities ahead of the 2027 World Cup, the board wants them to remain active through the domestic circuit.

The next possible step in this direction could be the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where Rohit has already indicated his willingness to play, while Kohli’s participation remains uncertain.

The Directive from the Board

According to sources quoted by The Indian Express, the board and team management have communicated to both players that participation in domestic tournaments is now mandatory for maintaining match readiness.

“As they both have retired from two formats, they have to play domestic cricket to be match-fit,” said a senior board official.

This new expectation aligns with the selection committee’s broader stance that senior players should not skip domestic cricket when available. It reflects a growing emphasis on accountability and readiness, ensuring that even the biggest names follow the same structure as younger players.

Possible Return in Vijay Hazare Trophy

The first window for this transition comes on December 24, when the Vijay Hazare Trophy — India’s premier domestic one-day competition — is scheduled between the South Africa ODI series (December 3–9) and the New Zealand series (January 11).

Rohit Sharma has reportedly informed the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) that he will be available to play in the tournament. The Indian captain has also been training at Mumbai’s Sharad Pawar Indoor Academy, indicating his intent to remain match-ready.

In contrast, there has been no confirmation yet on Kohli’s participation. The former captain, who currently resides in London, has not signaled his return to domestic cricket, though the board remains hopeful of seeing him don Delhi’s colors once again.

Retirement and the Road Ahead

Both Kohli and Rohit retired from T20 Internationals after India’s triumphant 2024 World Cup campaign, and from Tests following the 2024–25 tour of Australia. They continue to play ODIs, focusing on extending their careers in the 50-over format.

In their most recent series against Australia, the two veterans proved that experience still counts. Rohit scored a brilliant hundred in the final game, while Kohli bounced back from two early ducks with a commanding unbeaten 87 in the decider. Their match-winning stand was a reminder of the value they bring to India’s middle order.

However, as age and workload management come into play — Rohit is now 38 and Kohli 37 — maintaining rhythm and fitness through regular domestic cricket has become increasingly crucial.

BCCI’s Firm Stand on Domestic Participation

Last month, chief selector Ajit Agarkar reiterated the importance of playing domestic cricket whenever international schedules permit.

“We made it clear a year or two back that whenever players are available, they should be playing domestic cricket. That’s the only way you keep yourself sharp and ready,” Agarkar had said.

The message was not only for emerging players but also for established stars. It represents a broader vision to bridge the gap between international and domestic structures, ensuring that senior cricketers continue to mentor younger talents in Indian tournaments.

A Rare Domestic Appearance

Both Rohit and Kohli have made rare appearances in the Ranji Trophy in recent years. In January 2024, Kohli played for Delhi after a 12-year hiatus, while Rohit turned out for Mumbai for the first time in a decade.

Rohit had previously defended his long absence from domestic cricket, explaining that constant international travel and matches left little room for rest.

“When you play so much international cricket throughout the year, you need some time off as a cricketer just to refresh. But we have addressed it now and nobody takes it for granted anymore,” he said.

The renewed expectation from the board suggests that this “refresh” period will now need to include competitive domestic action.

Selection Committee’s Vision for 2027

Despite the renewed focus on domestic play, selectors maintain that Rohit and Kohli are not on trial for their spots. Agarkar, speaking at an NDTV event, made it clear that their legacy and contributions speak for themselves.

“You are not going to put them on trial in every game. They have achieved all they had to achieve — not just trophies but runs too. It’s not that if they don’t get runs in one series, they won’t be there. 2027 is a long way away, and we’ll assess as we go forward.”

The selectors are taking a balanced approach — combining respect for experience with preparation for the future. The long-term vision involves grooming younger players while ensuring that India’s most seasoned campaigners stay game-ready.

Why Domestic Cricket Matters Now

For players like Kohli and Rohit, domestic cricket offers several key benefits at this stage of their careers:

• Match fitness: Regular exposure to competitive cricket helps maintain rhythm during breaks from international fixtures.
  
  
• Mentorship: Their presence in domestic teams boosts morale and provides invaluable learning for younger players.

Continuity: Ensures consistent performance ahead of high-pressure ODI assignments and tournaments.

Moreover, by insisting on domestic participation, the BCCI reinforces a culture of discipline, equality, and accountability, where even icons must earn their places through form and effort.