BCCI Slams Kohli and Rohit: Play Domestic One-Dayers to Stay in ODI Plans

BCCI Makes Vijay Hazare Trophy Participation Mandatory for Kohli and Rohit’s ODI Future

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has sent a strong signal to two of its senior stars, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, that participation in domestic one-day cricket is now non-negotiable if they wish to remain in India's One-Day International setup.

BCCI Urges Kohli, Rohit to Play Domestic

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have already retired from Test cricket and T20 Internationals, but they continue to make their presence felt in the 50-over format. The BCCI and team management believe that since ODIs are so few and far between, domestic games have become a necessity to maintain form and fitness.

According to multiple reports, the board has informed the duo that they need to feature in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy, India’s premier domestic one-day tournament, if they wish to continue representing the country in ODIs, including the road to the 2027 World Cup.

In practical terms, Rohit has already indicated his willingness. He has reportedly told the Mumbai Cricket Association that he will be available for the Vijay Hazare Trophy.

Whereas Kohli’s availability is still not known, as he has not committed to playing in the tournament publicly.

Selection committee chairman Ajit Agarkar has been repeating the importance of domestic preparation. He has once again stressed that when players are available, playing domestic cricket is the best way to remain sharp and ready.

Will Kohli Follow Rohit Into Domestics?

Insiders point out that, while the directive may sound firm, neither Kohli nor Rohit is “on trial” in the conventional sense; their records and status are recognized. The message is clear, nonetheless: staying on the national side isn't automatic simply because you're a legacy player.

This move reflects a larger strategy by the BCCI to ensure that even senior players maintain competitive match practice, rather than just returning to international fixtures after long breaks. With ODIs becoming fewer and the aging process in a demanding sport, the board appears keen to keep its options open and maintain high standards.

If Kohli and Sharma want to continue wearing the Indian blue in 50-over cricket, then the pathway for now includes domestic one-day cricket. Whether Kohli will take that route is not yet known, but Rohit seems to have gotten the message.