Mumbai, November 12, 2025 — The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly sent a clear message to veteran cricketers Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma: participation in domestic one-day tournaments will be mandatory to retain their place in India’s ODI setup.
Both players, who have retired from Tests and T20 Internationals, continue to feature in the 50-over format. With limited international fixtures between December and January, the BCCI and selectors have indicated that the duo must return to domestic action to remain match-fit and eligible for selection.
Vijay Hazare Trophy could mark return
The Vijay Hazare Trophy, beginning December 24, is expected to be the first domestic appearance for the two stalwarts since their retirements from other formats. This one-day fixture falls between India’s three-match ODI series against South Africa (December 3–9) and the home series against New Zealand (January 11).
According to board sources, Rohit Sharma has already informed the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) of his availability for the tournament, while there is no clarity yet on Kohli’s participation.
Board’s directive and reasoning
A senior BCCI official told The Indian Express that the message was conveyed to both players through the team management:
“As they have retired from two formats, they will have to play domestic cricket to be match-fit if they wish to continue representing India in ODIs.”
Rohit, who has been practising at Mumbai’s Sharad Pawar Indoor Academy, is also likely to feature in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 tournament starting November 26. Meanwhile, Kohli — currently residing in London — is expected to communicate his domestic plans soon.
Selectors’ stand on domestic participation
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar had earlier emphasized the need for players to compete in domestic tournaments whenever available, stating,
“We made it clear that players should play domestic cricket whenever they’re free. It keeps them sharp and in rhythm.”
Both Kohli and Rohit featured in Ranji Trophy matches last season — Kohli for Delhi after 12 years and Rohit for Mumbai after a decade. Their limited appearances were attributed to packed international schedules and recovery periods.
Focus on continuity ahead of 2027 World Cup
While clarifying that the two senior players are not on trial, Agarkar said the board’s focus is on maintaining fitness and form consistency rather than judging them by individual series performances.
“They have achieved everything in cricket. 2027 is still far; the focus is on readiness and team progression.”
The move reflects the BCCI’s intent to balance experience with emerging talent, ensuring that senior players stay connected with India’s domestic circuit as the next ODI cycle begins.
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