Ajit Agarkar, the chief selector of BCCI, has spoken about the future of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli after the upcoming ODI series in Australia. Both players retired from Test cricket earlier this year.
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| Image Source: India Today |
They are now part of the ODI squad for the Australia tour starting October 19, 2025. This will be their return to international cricket since winning the Champions Trophy. However, Agarkar did not say if this will be their last international series.
There were rumors after India's Test series in England that the Australia tour might be the final one for Rohit and Kohli. The media said BCCI wants them to play more domestic cricket. This way, they can stay fit and ready for national selection. The idea is to keep them in form for the 2027 ODI World Cup. But Rohit and Kohli have stayed quiet about these rumors.
Agarkar said he does not know if the Australia series will be their last. He said the team picked them because they are playing the format now. The selectors want them to score runs and perform well. Agarkar also said it is too early to talk about the 2027 World Cup. Right now, the focus is on the Australia tour.
Agarkar explained that playing domestic cricket is very important for their future. He said BCCI told players long ago to play domestic cricket when they are free. It helps them stay sharp and ready. Agarkar mentioned the Vijay Hazare Trophy, a key domestic 50-over tournament, as a place where they should play. Kohli last played domestic List A cricket in 2010, and Rohit last played the Vijay Hazare Trophy in 2018.
By playing domestic cricket, Rohit and Kohli can improve their chances of playing in the 2027 World Cup. Agarkar made it clear that taking part in domestic competitions is a key factor for their selection. This helps balance the experience of senior players with new talent in the team.