The BCCI has clearly informed former India captains Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli that if they wish to continue playing international cricket for India, they must participate in the domestic cricket.
After the 2024 T20 World Cup, both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retired from T20 internationals, and in 2025, they also announced retirement from Test cricket. At present, both stars are active only in the ODI format.
They last played in the ODI series against Australia in October 2025, where India lost 1–2. Rohit scored a half-century and an unbeaten century, while Kohli amassed unbeaten 74 runs in the third ODI after initial two ducks.
However, with their advancing age and limited appearances, questions are being raised about their future in ODIs — including their participation in the 2027 ODI World Cup.
According to BCCI sources, the board and team management have informed both players that after retiring from two formats, they now need to play domestic cricket to maintain fitness.
As per a PTI report, Rohit Sharma has already confirmed his availability to the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) for the Vijay Hazare Trophy, while there is no confirmation yet from Kohli.
Both players had featured in one Ranji Trophy match each last season — Kohli played for Delhi after 12 years, and Rohit represented Mumbai after 10 years.
