The 3-match unofficial ODI series between India A and South Africa A begins on November 13 in Rajkot, but the big question for Indian cricket fans is whether Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli will use the series to stay match-fit before India’s upcoming home fixtures.
Both modern-day greats looked rusty early on during the Australia tour but regained rhythm as the series progressed. However, with long breaks between assignments and their retirement from T20Is (June 2024) and Tests (May 2025), the two will need consistent match exposure to maintain sharpness.
Shubman Gill’s stance on the matter
India’s ODI captain Shubman Gill recently acknowledged the importance of keeping senior players active. Speaking in Sydney after the Australia series, he said discussions with selectors would happen after the South Africa series, indicating that the matter of senior players participating in domestic or A-level cricket is under review.
“Till now there is no talk about this, but after the South Africa series, there will be a gap before the New Zealand series. Then we’ll decide how to keep players in touch,” Gill said on October 25.
Should Rohit and Kohli play for India A?
From the Australia series to the South Africa ODIs, there’s a 36-day break—a period with no competitive cricket. Playing in the India A vs South Africa A series would allow both stalwarts to get valuable match time before returning for the senior series.
While neither has anything left to prove, Chairman of Selectors Ajit Agarkar has already stated that the duo’s inclusion in the 2027 ODI World Cup plans will depend on performance, not reputation.
To remain in top shape, they may consider playing in the India A series or even in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, which begins in December.
Rohit & Kohli’s possible schedule ahead
| Series | Matches | Dates |
|---|---|---|
| India A vs South Africa A | 3 | November 13–19 |
| India vs South Africa (ODIs) | 3 | November 30–December 6 |
| Vijay Hazare Trophy | 7 | December 24–January 8 |
| India vs New Zealand (ODIs) | 3 | January 11–18 |
Whether the BCCI will officially ask Rohit and Kohli to play remains uncertain, but with the ODI World Cup 2027 on the horizon, it’s clear that consistent game time—not just reputation—will be key to their selection.
