The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has sent a strong message to Indian cricket legends Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli — play domestic cricket or risk losing your spot in the national team. After retiring from T20 and Test formats, both stars are currently active only in One Day Internationals (ODIs). With the 2027 World Cup still two years away, the board wants to ensure both maintain their fitness, form, and match sharpness through domestic tournaments.
BCCI’s Directive: “Play to Stay Fit”
According to BCCI sources, both players were informed that participation in domestic cricket is now compulsory if they wish to continue representing India. A senior board official told The Indian Express, “The board and team management have made it clear — if they want to play for India, they must play domestic cricket. Since they’ve retired from two formats, this is essential to stay match-fit and in rhythm.”
This comes right after selection committee chairman Ajit Agarkar emphasized the same policy last month, saying players must stay active in domestic competitions whenever available, especially after long breaks from international cricket.
Rohit Sharma Confirms Availability for Vijay Hazare Trophy
Rohit Sharma has already confirmed to the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) that he will be available for the Vijay Hazare Trophy, India’s premier domestic one-day competition. The tournament, starting December 24, will act as the perfect bridge between India’s ODI series against South Africa (December 3–9) and New Zealand (starting January 11).
Reports also suggest that Rohit might play in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy, which begins on November 26. Currently, he is training at Sharad Pawar Indoor Academy in Mumbai to regain full match fitness and rhythm ahead of a busy schedule.
Kohli Yet to Confirm His Participation
Unlike Rohit, Virat Kohli has yet to confirm his availability for the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Kohli is currently in London, and sources say the board expects him to join domestic action soon. Interestingly, the last time Kohli played in the Vijay Hazare Trophy was back in 2010, when he captained Delhi and shared the field with Shikhar Dhawan and current BCCI president Mithun Manhas.
Both players had featured in Ranji Trophy matches earlier this year — Rohit for Mumbai after ten years and Kohli for Delhi after a 12-year gap — marking their intent to stay connected to domestic cricket.
The BCCI move signals a clear intent — experience alone won’t guarantee selection anymore.
By making domestic cricket mandatory, the board wants senior players to set an example for young cricketers and maintain high competitive standards. This ensures players earn their place based on form, not reputation.
An insider explained, “This is about balance — ensuring fitness, form, and competition. It also sends a message to youngsters that performance is the only way to stay in the team.”
Focus on the 2027 ODI World Cup
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar recently clarified that Rohit and Kohli are not on any trial, but consistent performances will decide their place in India’s plans leading up to the 2027 ODI World Cup. He said, “They have achieved a lot for India, but the next World Cup is two years away. We will keep assessing them as time progresses.”
As both stalwarts look to extend their careers in the 50-over format, the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy could play a key role in shaping their future in Indian cricket.
The BCCI latest directive marks a new phase in Indian cricket administration – one that values discipline, consistency, and fairness. For Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, participation in domestic cricket is not just about proving form; it’s a statement of commitment to the team and the game.
As the countdown to the 2027 World Cup begins, all eyes will be on these two icons to see how they respond — not just as legends, but as professionals determined to continue contributing to Indian cricket’s legacy.
