NEW DELHI: As speculations continue about the future of India’s two cricketing icons, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, the BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla has stepped in to clarify the situation.
Gautam Gambhir's remarks on Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma's ODI future leave fans speculating
Speaking after India’s seven-wicket win over the West Indies in the second Test at Arun Jaitley Stadium, Shukla dismissed rumours that the upcoming ODI series against Australia would mark the final international appearances for the two batters.
Speaking to ANI after India’s win over the West Indies in the second Test. Shukla highlighted the value of having Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the ODI squad, stressing their experience and batting skills. He said their presence would strengthen the team and boost India’s chances against Australia.
🚨BIG BREAKING ~🔥
Vice-President Rajiv Shukla has firmly denied these rumors, stating that the tour is not their "last series" and emphasizing their continued value to the team.☑️#RohitSharma𓃵 #ViratKohli𓃵 #rajeevshukla pic.twitter.com/pVsTHWppQa
"This is very beneficial for us, because both of them are great batsmen, and in the presence of both of them, I think we will be successful in defeating Australia," he stated.
Addressing the speculation about the upcoming series being their last, Shukla clarified that retirement decisions are entirely up to the players. He emphasised that assumptions about their final series are incorrect.
He added, "And as far as this being their last series is concerned, it is nothing like that. We should never go into these things. It is up to the players when they would retire. To say this would be their last series is absolutely wrong."
Rohit and Virat to return as India face Australia in three-match ODI series
India is set to take on Australia in a three-match ODI series starting November 19, marking the return of Rohit and Virat to international cricket after a significant break. Their inclusion has reignited discussions and speculation among fans and analysts, with many suggesting that this could be the duo’s farewell series.
There is chatter that the team management may not be planning to carry Rohit and Virat into the ICC ODI World Cup 2027, given their age and the rise of younger players in the squad.
