Have Rohit and Kohli Been Asked to Play Domestic Matches?
Synopsis
In a significant move, the BCCI has urged cricket icons Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to participate in domestic tournaments to secure their places in the ODI setup. As the T20 World Cup approaches, both players gear up for crucial matches that could shape their future in Indian cricket.
Key Takeaways
Kohli and Rohit urged to participate in domestic matches.
Focus on gaining match fitness ahead of the ODI World Cup.
Upcoming ODI series against South Africa starts December 3.
Rohit confirmed availability for Vijay Hazare Trophy.
Both players last participated in the ODI series in Australia.
New Delhi, Nov 12 (NationPress) Indian cricket legends Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have reportedly received directives to engage in domestic competitions with their state teams to maintain their prospects for the ODI squad.
The two have focused exclusively on ODIs, having stepped away from T20Is and Tests. With the current ODI calendar limited and the T20 World Cup approaching, it's essential for both players to gain match experience as they aim for selection in the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Kohli and Rohit are anticipated to participate in the upcoming three-match ODI series against South Africa, set to commence on December 3. Their next appearance in the Indian team is likely to be in January 2026 when they host New Zealand for ODIs starting on the 11th. They will have a month-long break during which the Vijay Hazare Trophy will take place.
According to a report from the Indian Express, Rohit has confirmed his availability to the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) for the Vijay Hazare Trophy, but there are no updates regarding Kohli's participation.
“The board and team management have communicated to both players that active participation in domestic cricket is necessary to remain eligible for national selection. Since they have retired from two formats, domestic matches are crucial for maintaining match fitness,” BCCI sources mentioned.
Rohit and Kohli last played in the ODI series in Australia last month, where their unbeaten partnership in the final match secured a nine-wicket victory for India. Rohit excelled in two of the three games, scoring a century in the last, while Kohli rebounded from two ducks to finish with an unbeaten 87 in the final ODI.
Rohit has also indicated to the MCA that he may be available for the forthcoming Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy, which kicks off on November 26.
Recently, the Indian captain has been enhancing his skills at Mumbai’s Sharad Pawar Indoor Academy. Meanwhile, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) hopes that Kohli will also make a return to domestic cricket.
Last season, both Rohit and Kohli played a single Ranji Trophy match each. Kohli made a comeback for Delhi in January after a 12-year absence, while Rohit represented Mumbai after a decade-long hiatus.
Point of View
It is clear that maintaining a competitive edge is essential for our cricketing legends. The BCCI's insistence on domestic participation for Kohli and Rohit underscores the importance of nurturing talent and ensuring match fitness. The nation's cricketing aspirations depend on the performance of these stalwarts, making their involvement in domestic matches crucial.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Kohli and Rohit being asked to play domestic matches?
The BCCI believes that participating in domestic competitions will help Kohli and Rohit maintain match fitness and stay in contention for the ODI team as they have retired from T20Is and Tests.
When will the ODI series against South Africa start?
The three-match ODI series against South Africa is scheduled to begin on December 3.
What is the significance of the Vijay Hazare Trophy?
The Vijay Hazare Trophy provides an essential platform for players like Kohli and Rohit to gain match practice and prove their fitness for national selection.
