NEW DELHI: After their retirements from Test and T20I cricket, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma face a challenging road ahead to keep their ODI spots intact, as featuring in just one format has raised questions about their match fitness.
With the 2027 ODI World Cup still a long way off, lack of regular game time could hinder their chances of making the squad. According to a report in The Times of India, the BCCI is keen on seeing Kohli and Rohit play the Vijay Hazare Trophy if they are to remain in contention for the World Cup.
Kohli signals readiness
Reports suggest that while Rohit has already expressed his willingness to return to domestic cricket, Kohli too has given his nod to play if required.
According to The Times of India, the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee is "waiting for even the slightest slip-up from Rohit or Kohli" - whether in fitness or form - which could give them a reason to move on from the senior duo. But fully aware of what's at stake, both stalwarts are prepared to battle hard to keep their spots and extend their ODI careers.
The report adds that chief selector Ajit Agarkar has made it clear that the panel will take a firm stand if either Kohli or Rohit opts out of domestic cricket once the South Africa ODI series is over.
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Kohli yet to confirm availability to DDCA
It further suggests that Kohli is expected to fly back to London after the series but is likely to return to Bengaluru later and link up with the Delhi squad for a few Vijay Hazare Trophy games. His exact return date, however, remains uncertain as he awaits clarity on the scheduling of the upcoming New Zealand series.
The report also noted that Kohli has not communicated any definitive plans to the Delhi association so far.
"There hasn't been any communication with the DDCA in this regard, but India's No. 3 had more or less sorted his schedule for the rest of the year while in Australia," the report stated.
