BCCI's Clear Directive to Cricket Stars
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has delivered a significant message to two of the nation's most celebrated cricketers, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. If they wish to continue representing India in One-Day Internationals, they must participate in domestic cricket. This directive comes after both legendary players retired from Test and T20 International cricket but have chosen to continue their ODI careers.
The Domestic Grind: A Path Back to the National Team
The first practical step in this new requirement could see the two former captains featuring in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, which begins on December 24. This tournament is strategically the only domestic one-day competition scheduled between the three-match ODI series against South Africa (December 3-9) and the subsequent series against New Zealand (starting January 11).
According to sources within the board, the communication has been clear. "The board and team management have conveyed to both of them that they will have to play domestic cricket if they want to play for India. As they both have retired from two formats, they have to play domestic cricket to be match-fit," a source revealed.
Reports indicate that Rohit Sharma has already informed the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) of his availability for the Vijay Hazare Trophy. There is further speculation that he might also play in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 tournament, commencing on November 26. He has been actively preparing at Mumbai's Sharad Pawar indoor academy.
The situation regarding Virat Kohli's participation remains less certain. The board is hopeful that Kohli, who currently resides in London, will also answer the call to play domestic cricket.
A Broader Policy and Future Implications
This move is not an isolated incident but part of a broader philosophy recently emphasized by chief selector Ajit Agarkar. He had previously stated the importance of all players turning out for domestic cricket whenever possible to maintain their sharpness, especially during long breaks from international duty.
Both Kohli, 37, and Rohit, 38, last played ODIs during the series in Australia last month, where they combined for a match-winning partnership in the final game. While their commitment is not in question, the board's policy aims to ensure consistent match readiness.
It is worth noting that both players made rare appearances in the Ranji Trophy last season. Kohli played for Delhi after a 12-year gap, while Rohit turned out for Mumbai after a decade. At the time, Rohit had explained that the demanding international schedule often leaves little room for domestic cricket, but acknowledged the need to address the issue.
Looking ahead to the 2027 ODI World Cup, Agarkar clarified that the veterans are "not on trial." He emphasized that their immense achievements speak for themselves, and their selection will be part of a continuous assessment process over the coming years, not decided by the outcome of a single series.
