Kohli And Rohit May Play Domestic Cricket To Stay Match-Fit

The Indian cricket board has signaled that Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will need to participate in domestic cricket to remain match-fit for India. Both players have retired from Tests and T20 Internationals but continue to play ODIs.

The first potential opportunity is the Vijay Hazare Trophy on 24 December, which fits between the three-ODI series against South Africa (3–9 December) and the series against New Zealand starting 11 January.

Rohit Sharma has informed the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) that he is likely available for the Vijay Hazare Trophy, while Virat Kohli’s availability is still uncertain.

Both players last featured in ODIs during the series in Australia, where Rohit scored a hundred in the final game, and Kohli bounced back from two ducks to score 87 not out.

Sources in the board told reporters that playing domestic cricket is necessary for retired players to stay sharp. Since both Kohli and Rohit have stepped away from two formats, domestic games are vital to maintain match fitness and competitive edge.

Rohit has also been practicing at Mumbai’s Sharad Pawar indoor academy and may even participate in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 tournament starting 26 November. The board is hopeful that Kohli, currently based in London, will also play domestic cricket.

Ajit Agarkar, chairman of India’s selection committee, has stressed the importance of domestic cricket for all players. He noted that whenever players are available, they should participate in domestic competitions to stay sharp and maintain form between international assignments.

Last season, both Kohli and Rohit played one Ranji Trophy match each, marking Kohli’s return to Delhi after 12 years and Rohit’s appearance for Mumbai after 10 years.

Rohit explained that his absence from domestic cricket was due to a heavy international schedule since 2019. He emphasized the importance of taking time off to refresh as a cricketer and noted that this approach has been addressed and managed carefully by the board.

Playing domestic cricket now allows them to regain form and readiness for upcoming ODIs without overburdening their schedules.

Agarkar clarified that Kohli and Rohit are not on trial despite their reduced international appearances. Their performances in domestic games will help assess match fitness, but their place in the team for future tournaments, including the 2027 ODI World Cup, is not under question.

The selection committee remains focused on long-term planning, gradually integrating domestic performances to maintain consistency and readiness ahead of major series and tournaments.

With upcoming ODI series against South Africa and New Zealand, playing domestic matches like the Vijay Hazare Trophy and possibly the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 tournament will help Kohli and Rohit maintain form.

This approach ensures that India’s senior stars remain competitive while balancing rest and preparation, helping the team shape a strong squad for the next few years of international cricket.